MANILA – President Rodrigo Duterte was scheduled to witness the signing of agreements with South Korea on Monday as part of his three-day official visit.
Duterte arrived in Seoul on June 3 for the visit that aims to reaffirm Philippine-South Korea relations.
Four agreements on transportation, technology, infrastructure, and trade cooperation are expected to be signed.
Part of Duterte’s delegation are Presidential Spokesman Harry Roque Jr., Agriculture secretary Emmanuel Piñol, Presidential Communications secretary Martin Andanar, Science and Technology secretary Fortunato dela Peña, Trade secretary Ramon Lopez, and Special Assistant to the President Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go.
“As a long-standing partner, the Republic of Korea has already joined the Philippines in our efforts to achieve inclusive and sustainable economic development growth,” Duterte said.
“Yet, there is much room for even healthier growth across the areas of mutual interests. The Philippines stands ready to write a new chapter of closer ties, deeper amity and more comprehensive collaboration with South Korea,” he added.
On Monday Duterte was set to lay a wreath at the Seoul National Cemetery to honor the fallen soldiers, leaders and heroes of South Korea.
He was also expected to meet with President Moon Jar-in for the bilateral summit meeting at the presidential residence Cheong Wa Dae (Blue House) and join the South Korean leader for a dinner at the State Guest House.
On Sunday the Philippine leader met with members of the Filipino community at the Grand Hilton Hotel and Convention Center.
On Tuesday Duterte will meet with Korean businessmen to encourage them to invest in the Philippines.
South Korea is the seventh largest trading partner and top tourist source of the country.
The President said he will “encourage [Korean business leaders] to be our responsible partners in our pursuit of economic growth.”
“This way, they can actively contribute to our objective of providing a comfortable life for our people,” he added.
Duterte will cap off his trip to Korea by gracing the Philippine Food Festival at the E-Mart headquarters./PN
