President Duterte reaffirms support to cops, soldiers in anti-drug war

TACLOBAN CITY, Aug. 29 (PNA) - “Law enforcement operatives have my 101 percent support,” assured President Rodrigo Duterte after visiting a wounded junior police officer in this city on Monday.

The Chief Executive visited PO1 Nestor Villanueva Jr, who has been confined at the Divine Word Hospital since last week.

The police officer was wounded while his comrade was shot dead while attempting to serve a search warrant to Ernesto Gonzales, 49, for his involvement in illegal drugs trade and illegal possession of firearms on Aug. 24 in Marabut, Samar.

President Duterte arrived at 2:00 p.m. and was greeted by a cheering crowd composed of hospital staff and supporters. Earlier, he visited the wake of PO1 Gary Cabaguing in Catbalogan, Samar who was slain in the same anti-drug operation.

The President said that he can be held accountable and responsible when policemen are charged while performing their duty.

“I will assume all legal and official responsibilities for their action. I will take full responsibility for the things that you would do in obedience to my order,” he assured.

“You will have protection and I will not allow that one of you will be jailed just because you are performing your duty.”

“If I will not stop this industry then I would have compromise the next generation,” he added.

Mr. Duterte first expressed his full backing to law enforcers in anti-drug operation during his visit to the Western Mindanao Command in Zamboanga City on July 22.

The Chief Executive reiterated that he is willing to sacrifice his life, honor, and the presidency just to end the drug menace under his watch. (PNA)
LAP/SQM/RTA/EGR