Philippines, China partners vs illegal drugs, crimes, terrorism: Duterte

April 10, 2018

President Rodrigo Duterte said on Tuesday China is the Philippines' partner in the war against illegal drug trade, criminality and terrorism.

This was Duterte's message during his speech at the opening ceremonies of the Boao Forum for Asia in Hainan, China.

"With China, we stand together in the war on criminality and illegal drug trade. We are shoulder to shoulder in the fight against terrorism and violent extremism," he said.

Philippine authorities have confiscated huge amount of illegal drugs from China in the past.

Duterte admitted its relations with China have been complex, but this does not hinder the two countries from having "positive and mutually beneficial engagement."

"Make no mistake: there can be no progress without stability in Asia's lands and waters," Duterte said.

The Philippines, with other Southeast Asian countries, has been engaged in territorial disputes with China in South China Sea.

Duterte said Manila and Beijing as "sovereign equals," are also partners in the building of much-needed infrastructure.

"[We are building] bridges of greater understanding between our peoples. We are working together on strengthening economic complementarities," he added.

During the Marawi siege last year, China provided the Philippines with weapons. It also promised to extend aid on some of Manila's infrastructure projects.

Duterte is on an overnight trip to China. From Hainan, Duterte is set to proceed to Hong Kong where he will meet the Filipino community. Celerina Monte/DMS