MANILA, Philippines (Eagle News) — President Rodrigo R. Duterte announced plans to visit China and Russia within the year, to chart an independent foreign policy and “open alliances”.
Duterte said he wants to open the Philippines to more Chinese investments despite disputes over the South China Sea.
Duterte also said his relationship with long-time ally Washington was about to “cross the Rubicon” and instead asked help from its long-time rival, Moscow, on “everything.”
It is unclear whether Duterte’s statements will impact on relations between the Philippines and the US.
Militaries of both sides are due to carry out joint exercises in the first half of October.