Duterte arrives in PHL from India trip

(Eagle News)–President Rodrigo Duterte arrived in the country early Saturday from his trip to India.

Trade Secretary Ramon Lopez said the trip generated at least $1.25 billion in investment commitment from Indian businessmen.

He said business engagements resulted in the inking of  12 business agreements, two memoranda of understanding and 10 letters of intent.

“(This has also resulted) in at least 10,000 jobs in infrastructure development, renewable energy, IT and business services including customer service and experience transformation with artificial intelligence, robotics, processed automation and software services,” Lopez said.

Lopez said the country also wanted to secure pharmaceuticals for Filipinos at affordable prices.

During the  trip, the President discussed maritime defense and cooperation, and other security issues with his counterpart, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

In line with this, Presidential Harry Roque said the President committed to purchase military equipment from India.

At the India-Association for Southeast Asian Nations Summit, the President also underscored the importance of regional cooperation to address violent extremism.

Duterte left for India on January 23.

This is his first foreign trip for this year.