Just call me “Pareng Rody.”
President Duterte has given his contact numbers to a group of soldiers and urged them to call him whenever they are in need.
The President pledged his full support for the soldiers as he tried to boost their morale following the death of an Army captain in a clash with the Abu Sayyaf Group in Basilan.
“Next time magka-problema kayo, may babae ka na hindi ka talaga sinasagot, ilang taon na, ito tatawagan mo itong tatlo. Maski anong problema, kopyahin na lang ninyo,” Duterte said in a dialogue with soldiers last Monday night.
“Sabihin mo lang na, ‘Pwede bang kausapin si Pareng Rody? May problema kami dito.’ Oo, Pareng Rody lang,” he added.
The President attended the wake of Army Capt. Clinton Capio in Taguig City last Monday night and later held an impromptu dialogue with the soldiers.
The young military officer was slain in a government clash with the Abu Sayyaf in Basilan last week. Capio was posthumously promoted to major by the President in appreciate of his service to the nation.
The President recognized the sacrifices made by the soldiers in protecting the country from security threats and assured that he will continue to support them. He said he wants the soldiers to live comfortably in appreciation of their hard work.
“You do not get really the publicity of your exploits, of your bravery, or of your sacrifice but what is certain is that, ang gobyerno has, is (here for you),” he said. “Relax lang and basta nandiyan ako.” (Genalyn D. Kabiling)