JOLO, Sulu – Sulu Gov. Abdusakur Tan Saturday thanked United States (US) Ambassador Kristie A. Kenney for her contribution to peace and development in the province, including the deployment of US troops tasked to assist the local military in fighting terrorism in Sulu.

“On behalf on my people, we thank the good Ambassador Kristie Kenney, who was a frequent visitor of Sulu, for her many contribution to peace and development. And forever, we will be grateful to you,” Tan said.

It was during Kenney’s time that the US government, through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and the Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines poured millions of dollars worth of humanitarian and development projects, including the rehabilitation of the airport in this capital town.

In a statement sent by the US Embassy to Manila Bulletin, Kenney said “working with many Filipinos, from all walks of life, has been one of the most memorable experiences of her life.''

She said “it has been an extraordinary honor and privilege to serve as the US ambassador to the Philippines for more than three-and-a-half years.
“I have come to deeply appreciate not just the warmth and friendship of Filipinos, but also their determination to make their country, region, and world a better place for their children and grandchildren.

“It has been a true pleasure to live in this beautiful country, and to lead the US Embassy in efforts to partner with the government and people of the Philippines for the greater good of Americans and Filipinos alike,” the statement of Kenney reads.

Meanwhile, the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) also praised Kenney for her efforts and support to the Mindanao peace process.