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As Duterte embraces China, Abe set to roll out warm welcome

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By Tim Kelly and Nobuhiro Kubo

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Sounds to me like Duterte is the Philippines version of Trump, playing upon people's fears, getting into bed with a potential adversary, while all along sticking with the people who butter his bread.

8 ( +20 / -12 )

Sounds like a smart political leader to me!

-2 ( +15 / -17 )

Every politician has his or her agenda. Abe is willing to kiss up to Duterte for the sake of Japan Inc. Duterte is shamelessly trying to play both sides of US and China: Security from the US and big cash handouts from China.

11 ( +18 / -7 )

His announcement on this issue, leaving the U.S., wasn't very well received in the Philippines. There had been no debate at all, and he didn't even tell his cabinet what he intended to do, giving the impression that a massive change in government policy which will have huge political and economic effects for the country was something he just randomly spat out of his mouth because Obama hurt his feelings for criticizing his drug war.

It also didn't help that he made this announcement not at home to his people but in China to a Chinese audience. He is still popular but this is probably the first dent in his armor politically at home.

7 ( +15 / -8 )

Phillipines have been colonized by Spain and US for a long time. It is only Christian nation in Asia. Sadly being the follower of US has not been fruitful for that impoverished nation. Corruption, crime and drug smuggling are part of the daily lives.

Being democratic, puppet of US and westernized nation can not solve the problems of Phillipines. Durete is strong leader who fought hard against drug problems. He will transform Phillipines economy too. Gun boat diplomacy does not work.it will make more wars and poverties.

0 ( +15 / -15 )

Sounds to me like Duterte is The Philippines version of Clinton, winking and supporting terrorists in Lybia, causing the assasination of the president who had forsaken terror and was an ally of the US, and causing the death of thousands and a massive refugee problem.

-20 ( +6 / -26 )

Sounds to me like Duterte is the Philippines version of Trump, playing upon people's fears

Since you saw the need to inject Trump into the discussion, I may as well point out that it is Obama and Clinton who are responsible for losing the Philippines. Maybe they were too busy drumming up fear of Russia to bother with an "inferior" country.

-4 ( +14 / -18 )

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe plans ... contain Beijing’s South China Sea ambitions.

Contain China this, Counter China influence China that.. It is what Japan do.

With Duterte winding up a trip to China where he announced his “separation” from the United States, Abe faces a delicate task to promote the closely aligned security goals of Tokyo and Washington without pushing the Philippine leader deeper into Beijing’s embrace.

Duterte and Xi already declared that they will try resolve their dispute peaceful through talks. So, what is this different goals from Tokyo and Washington?

Japan wants to explain its regional stance,

Which is USA tell Japan what to think and do and Japan obeys.

Duterte’s apparent cosying up to Beijing has both Tokyo and Washington worried that the commitment under former Philippine President Benigno Aquino to stand up to China in the hotly disputed waterway is under threat.

So, Duterte and Xi wants to resolve their dispute peaceful and Tokyo and Washington's commitment is under threat because of that?

On Friday, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying said Japan was “sparing no effort” to get involved in the South China Sea issue, saying Japan was behind the times in the rapidly improving China-Philippines relationship.

Exactly. It seems Japan is getting nervous now China and Philippines are trying to become friend once again and resolve their dispute peacefully.

Abe will hold one-on-one talks with Duterte at his residence in Tokyo on Wednesday night following a larger, more formal meeting with senior officials, the sources said.

Something Abe doesn't want to say or show in public? Maybe Washington is relaying some demands through Abe and Abe will try to threat Duterte/Philippines.

Duterte visited Beijing first with an entourage of around 200 business people. On Thursday, he declared the United States had lost and he had “realigned” with China.

Maybe Duterte's thinking is that joining American's Asia Pivot is not as profitable as it was lead to believe. What have Philippines gained since joining the Pivot? Nothing. Except becoming the pawn that have been used by the Americans to agitate and attack China. Now, China have some of the largest permanent islands in South China Sea. And Philippines also lost the disputed Scarborough shoal and the fishing area around it.

Duterte has railed against U.S. criticism of his deadly war on drugs

How many years have the US being on War on Drugs and how many people have died from it? Will Philippines' War of Drugs get better result sooner than the American's? We will have to wait and see.

Duterte places “great value on the Philippines’ vibrant and dynamic relationship” with Japan, a Philippine government spokeswoman said ahead of the visit.

Philippines can have good relationship with China and Japan at the same time. Does Japan share this view?

“In regard to the problem in the South China Sea, we are looking reach a diplomatic solution through cooperation between with the countries involved,” Suga told a regular media briefing on Friday.

It is what Xi and Duterte is doing. They are trying to resolve it through peaceful talk, but Japan is apparently scared of this turn of event.

..“unilateral, dangerous and coercive actions” in the South China Sea.

Like how Japan unilaterally nationalize Senkaku/ Diaoyu Islands(coincidentally, around the same time Japan joined American's Asia Pivot)?

“There is more Chinese assertion in the South China Sea and Japan has more worries it will do the same the same in the East China Sea,” said Alison Evans, deputy head of Asia Pacific Desk, Country Risk at IHS Markit. “Japan has to be more concerned now than six months ago.”

Yeah, without Philippines being on the front of American's Asia Pivot which it have to take the blunts/hits from China, now Japan will be at the front. Hope Japan will enjoy it when the time comes.

1 ( +12 / -11 )

The US needs to have a word with Abe...

1 ( +1 / -0 )

Duterte thinks China is a very strict country about drugs while America is not. He thinks democracy (profit first capitalism) and hypocratic human rights in America is helping drug busineeses and abusers. No human rights for drug dealers and abusers in the Philippines and in China. I agree.

3 ( +9 / -6 )

China is establishing its dominance in the Pacific and Indian Ocean areas. It has built docks and pipelines throughout the region. It has established firm relations with rulers and businesses throughout the region. It is building a powerful naval force, knowing that navies are critical to maintaining control over the seas, arguably the most important means of transporting goods these days. It’s built a military capable of defending its regional investments.

China has huge quantities of rare earth elements, those which are most important in modern technology, including alternative energy, on its own soil, putting China streets and sea lanes ahead of its competitors.

The US has squandered trillions trying to gain greater control of last century’s most important natural resource: petroleum. The US’s military invasions have weakened it financially. Its relations with other countries have deteriorated for myriad reasons. Its partner Japan has been stuck trying to recover from the blunders of the bubble years, but its cultural hubris limits its ability to alter course. It remains in wheel spinning mode.

To me Duterte is a scary man, but it looks like he doesn’t need a weatherman to know which way the economic winds are blowing.

10 ( +13 / -3 )

One of most bizarre political press conf I have ever seen, felt like he was announcing a 'separation' from his better half on live tv. Don't you discuss that in private first?

Can't stand the guy. A triumvirate of China, the Philippines and NK would be a worry.

8 ( +14 / -6 )

Duterte...the next Philippine dictator, and China will help him achieve that. Philippines aren't you tired of dictatorships? You get what you vote for.

9 ( +15 / -6 )

Duterte basically went to China, lifted up his skirt, and bent over.

10 ( +17 / -7 )

RealCDN at Oct. 22, 2016 - 08:29AM JST Dufarte is a fool. Entertaining for awhile, but his time will pass. China must be laughing a lot about him behind closed doors.

He is a lot smarter than you give him credit for. Simplistic anaylsis of his intention and thinking is what I'm seeing in quite a few posts here.

8 ( +13 / -5 )

" Sounds to me like Duterte is the Philippines version of Trump "

They are both accidental genius for sure. And Duterte actually got a good deal that only Trump can envy.

Anyway

Did Duterte just unintentionally discovered the important strategic importance of the Philippines in East Asia and Duterte is taking advantage of it accordingly?

For the longest time USA has neglected the strategic importance of philippines, and is now in danger of losing economically and militarily to China.

Subic base and Clark airbase might as well be China's PLAN and PLAAF respectively if USA and Japan continues to ignore, if not downplay the importance of Philippines in the region.

USA and Japan cannot afford to lose the one of the "First Island Chain" that is the Philippines.

https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Island_Chain_Strategy

Beijing just offered sweet aid deals to Philippines worth $13 billion.

Washington and Tokyo now have to match or exceed the above offer so that the Philippines does not completely turn to China. Get ready, Washington and Tokyo, Philippines strategic importance has shot up overnight. Duterte is playing hardball and if they don't want to lose the Philippines they'll have to give bigger and sweeter deals.

2 ( +7 / -5 )

When the first Chinese "Friendship" garrison gets built in the P.I., I'll be laughing my head off.

1 ( +8 / -7 )

Perfect example of what happens when leaders have no leadership skills. No, not Détente, Obama. Obama complains about Détente's drug war while droning funerals and selling weapons to evil countries. Obama's a hypocrite of course, and whining about Détente is stupid. This is what happens when tools are put in power. Most don't get it.

-2 ( +11 / -13 )

" Duterte is shamelessly trying to play both sides of US and China: Security from the US and big cash handouts from China. "

DU30 is gonna be in Japan on Oct. 25

Wonder how much billions he'll get from Japan. Japan has no choice but to up he ante, aid wise

0 ( +2 / -2 )

"“It’s unusual for the Japanese prime minister to hold a second smaller meeting,”

Not when you want to bribe and beg it's not. There is no reason to hold the meeting behind closed doors otherwise. Duterte has already take Japan's navy boats and other weaponry and machinery, Abe is going to be a moron and offer him more. Duterte is going to then turn around and tell Abe that the Philippines will do as it pleases with regard to China, leaving Abe to say, "b-b-b-but that secret meeting -- errr... but we talked and you gave me your word... This is very regrettable!"

The man is a snake, and Japan should not be trying to play both sides as it always does. Abe is just going to look foolish when in a week or so after Duterte kicks out the US Abe asks Washington to "understand and cooperate and make Japan the exception when dealing with the Philippines" even though the Philippines is clearly getting into bed with China.

5 ( +12 / -7 )

Schopenhauer: With all due respect, America is the name of the entire continent from Alaska to Tierra del Fuego.

1 ( +3 / -2 )

One thing for Japan to learn from this guy and China. Tough stance against drugdealings, one of the reasons why so many Psychotics on the street nowadays. and against Yakuza family too

4 ( +8 / -4 )

Schopenhauer: With all due respect, America is the name of the entire continent from Alaska to Tierra del Fuego.

No it's not. That's North America.

America is the colloquial name for the United States.

Try asking a Canadian or a Mexican if they are American. Then try asking them if they are North American. The answers will not be the same.

2 ( +7 / -5 )

kamejima47 at Oct. 22, 2016 - 09:22AM JST Schopenhauer: With all due respect, America is the name of the entire continent from Alaska to Tierra del Fuego.

That's TWO continents - North America and South America. 'America' by itself customarily refers to the country of USA.

Why are you bringing up third grade geography lessons?

5 ( +6 / -1 )

No it's not. That's North America.

I should have checked where Tierra Del Fuego was before posting.

Gaijindesu is correct, that's two continents.

1 ( +3 / -2 )

What a great leader smart asss I love this man. Not only words but with action. This was Obama's fault for criticizing Duterte about war on drugs and corruption. Duterte just want to clean his own country but Obama criticized him, instead of helping him to solve the problem.

-1 ( +9 / -10 )

He is "burning the candle at both ends." Guess what happens. The population will eventually send him on his way unless he becomes a dictator like two of his neighbors.

2 ( +7 / -5 )

Flexible, smart leader. Glad Abe didn't join the western countries antagonizing him.

2 ( +7 / -5 )

Duterte, what a bonehead. Now he's saying that he only meant separating but not severing its ties with the U.S. What the hell does that mean? Anyway, he's just made things that much harder for the U.S. to help the Philippines by preventing the Chinese from seizing more its territorial space. If I am Chinese leader Xi, I see a green light to go even further with occupying, developing and building up bases within territorial space belonging to the Philippines. Perhaps the U.S. should sever all of its military & economic ties and leave the Philippines out on a limb and twisting in the wind? Not the wisest thing to do politically, but still.

Duterte is kind of like that cute girl we knew in high school who used to get her kicks from making a scene by playing 2 guys off of each other just to see them fight over her. If that's the game Duterte is playing, then maybe the U.S. should simply turn around and walk away and not give Duterte the pleasure of starting a fight.

Traitor also clearly comes to mind regarding Duterte's bizarre foreign diplomacy. It's as if Duterte is only on the side of the Chinese (Their puppet?) and no longer on the side not just the U.S. but his own country & people, the Philippines.

Duterte is:

a. a bonehead

b. a traitor

c. a puppet

d. that cute girl you knew in high school

e. all of the above.

-4 ( +5 / -9 )

USA has been trying too make sure Asians ate against Chinas expanding artificial island. I think Aber is pretending he is going along with. But I think he could'' t care less. Ablūg 400 +years, ya abuchi ken had been shaved mountain.side and buried dirts to inland sea daily and twice l Larger. Abe is from yamagu hi ken.

0 ( +3 / -3 )

Maybe he had enough of Obama? Maybe Obama should have polished up on his diplomacy skills? It seems to have been the case.

0 ( +3 / -3 )

Now he's saying that he only meant separating but not severing its ties with the U.S. What the hell does that mean?

It means he and his country does want to be part of that American's Asia Pivot that aims to contain China anymore. That he would want to have an independent foreign policy that benefits his country. However, he have no problem working together with the Americans as a fair and equal partner for the benefit of both nations.

3 ( +5 / -2 )

Being democratic, puppet of US so hes swapped it for being a communist puppet of China. Sorry but I just cant see how this will benefit the Philippines, hes basically given up any sovereignty claims to the disputed waters and the natural resources it holds, China will only throw its dog scraps.

0 ( +5 / -5 )

@iworld99

If everybody in Asia feels the same way you do, then I have no qualms about the U.S. getting the hell out of Asia and letting the chips fall where they may. Good luck to 'ya!

BTW, I haven't seen the U.S. carving off pieces of the Philippines for itself, but the same can't be said about China.

5 ( +8 / -3 )

Well, this is what you get when you elect a populist, a crazy, deluded one at that. Probably has a poster of Hugo Chavez in his bedroom. Anyway, he has already backtracked from that “US separation” statement. He doesn’t want to stop “trade and investment” with the US. Guess he doesn’t want to miss those hundreds of millions of dollars the country gets in aid from the US. Speaking of aid, which country is showing up when a natural disaster strikes the Philippines? Hint: it isn’t Russia or China.

1 ( +5 / -4 )

that cute girl you knew in high school

Imagine Phillipines is that cute girl. US is good looking young punk who is looking for fight on the street. That punk also like lecturing, hectoring and bossy. Japan is match maker of US however it has been mistress for a long time. Since 1990, influence of mistress has been waning.

China is an old wealthy man as Donald Trump who can shower the gifts and financial security for that girl. Like Trump, old man will whisper romantic, sweet and persuasive words. As Trump successive wives, she will fall into the arms of that old man.

The morale of that story is money, gifts and flowers are sweeter than fists, knives and coffins.

1 ( +4 / -3 )

wtfjapan: Sorry but I just cant see how this will benefit the Philippines, hes basically given up any sovereignty claims to the >disputed waters and the natural resources it holds,

Xi and Duterte said they will try to resolve the disputes through talks instead of war. In the end, it might lead to Philippine losing some dispute areas. But given the disparity between China and Philippines do you see a peaceful way for Philippines to win in this disputes?

China will only throw its dog scraps.

So far, the scraps is about $13.5 dollars loans and investments. And there will probably more in the future. http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2016/10/20/1635602/philippines-sign-13.5b-deals-china Soon, Duterte will be visiting Japan. Lets see how much of a 'dog scraps' he will get there.

stormcrow: BTW, I haven't seen the U.S. carving off pieces of the Philippines for itself, but the same can't be said about China.

When there is a land/sea dispute , usually only one side become a winner. However, sometimes people can share. In the case of Scarborough Shoal, we will see if Philippines can convince China to let its fishermen fish there in the future.

Again, Japan claims to be friend of Philippines and wants Philippines to join its design to contain China, then we will have wait and see Japan willing to loan to Philippines for their developments in this friendship.

1 ( +3 / -2 )

@Zenpun

From my experience those cute girls return their hunks after a couple gross weeks with the old man.

Your analogy is quite absurd.

1 ( +3 / -2 )

@iworld99

"Xi and Duterte will try to resolve the disputes through talks instead of war."

Disputes?! Are you kidding? That would be like the U.S. seizing Vancouver and telling the world that it was ironing things out with Canada, so no worries.

4 ( +5 / -1 )

Duterte's actions are Duterte's actions, people -- not Obama's, and not Abe's. DUTERTE'S. Blaming Obama or anyone else for what he is doing is ludicrous and just petty politics. You can blame Obama for criticizing the man, sure, but that would be moronic since the man's policies have not decreased the drug trade by any measurable means, and have resulted in THOUSANDS of casualties, most believed to be innocent bystanders. The man takes pleasure in being compared to Hitler -- and you blame OBAMA?

Seriously... you guys need to get your heads out of your butts and start seeing this guy for what HE is, not justifying his actions by saying it's the fault of someone else on the otherside of the world as you engage in partisan politics. Anyway who starts their comments on this thread with "It's Obama's..." is completely irrelevant.

0 ( +5 / -5 )

stormcrow: Disputes?! Are you kidding? That would be like the U.S. seizing Vancouver and telling the world that it was ironing things out with Canada, so no worries.

Eh, no. USA and Canada mutually recognizes Vancouver as part of Canada. So, it is not the same as the dispute between China and Philippine.

Also, USA have a Mutual Defense Treaty with Philippines. Would USA do nothing if China have taken what is considered solely belongs to Philippines?

If USA does nothing to defend Philippines sovereign integrity when Philippines have even joined its Asia Pivot to contain China then what else can Philippines do?

If you are the president of Philippines, what would you do that can realistically resolve this peacefully?

0 ( +2 / -2 )

I am by no means at all a big fan of Abe, however he is doing the right thing by meeting with him. As Hillary Clinton said it is important to empathize with our enemies (I do not think the Philippines is an enemy of Japan). I believe her exact quote was,

"This is what we call smart power, using every possible tool and partner to advance peace and security, leaving no one on the sidelines. Showing respect even for ones enemies. Trying to understand and in so far as psychologically possible, empathize with their perspective and point of view."

This is something I agree with and it should be applied to Duterte, Putin, etc. to the extent they are willing to participate. One never knows what extent they are willing to participate without having the proverbial sit down.

Find out what his issues are, see if there are common grounds from which to start a discussion, engage where possible, let Japan's point of view be well known, gather as much HUMINT as possible from the discussion and then decide what the next step is. Having a second smaller meeting is a very good idea.

I am curious to see how this goes.

0 ( +0 / -0 )

@stormcrow

It's as if Duterte is only on the side of the Chinese (Their puppet?) and no longer on the side not just the U.S. but his own country & people, the Philippines.

Which country is under Chinese puppet state control? Did you mean some countries like Uk, EU countries, Jpn, S.Kor by USofA?

0 ( +1 / -1 )

Duterte's days are numbered. Shouldn't be too long before he falls to a coup.

0 ( +3 / -3 )

Jugo de Manzana: days are numbered. Shouldn't be too long before he falls to a coup.

Well, it would be easier if he is the PM of Japan, the USA can just give him a pink slip, like Yukio Hatoyama.

0 ( +2 / -2 )

@smithinjapan - I completely agree with you this is not a partisan political issue. I despise extreme partisanship. References to Obama in this case are ridiculous.

Regarding your reference to Hitler the CNN website has the exact quotes, ""Hitler massacred 3 million Jews. Now there is 3 million, what is it, 3 million drug addicts (in the Philippines), there are,"...."I'd be happy to slaughter them. At least if Germany had Hitler, the Philippines would have (me). You know my victims, I would like (them) to be all criminals, to finish the problem of my country and save the next generation from perdition."

http://edition.cnn.com/2016/09/30/asia/duterte-hitler-comparison/

That said I in no way think Trump is fit for the Presidency but he is not nearly as bad as Duterte. Trump says some stupid things but not on this level.

That said, I still think Abe is making the right move by meeting him - more than once. Find out what the guy's deal is.

@Jugo - So are you thinking this will be a Military coup d'etat - with U.S. covert backing? I am actually curious and also I would be curious how the citizens of the Philippines would react to this.

-1 ( +1 / -2 )

It seems that US and Japan would be agitated more or less by Duterte's speech and thought anyway. Pilippine may become a closer friend for China while he is president.

-1 ( +1 / -2 )

Pilippine may become a closer friend for China while he is president.

Philippines can still maintain closer friends to Japan, as long as Japan doesn't twist this relationship to aim at and oppose other country.

Before Duterte started visiting Japan, he have already signed an immense investment deal worth $24 billion dollars with China.

http://globalnation.inquirer.net/147486/china-trip-bags-24-b-deals

Is Japan, the self proclaimed friend of Philippines, willing to invest as much, if not more, than that for the development of Philippines?

1 ( +3 / -2 )

the man's policies have not decreased the drug trade by any measurable means, and have resulted in THOUSANDS of casualties

Just in a month of his presidency, 580,000 drugdealers and abusers got scared and turned themselves in.

0 ( +3 / -3 )

You may not like the man, or what he says or does, but you'll have to admit he has the guts to stand up to the big brother and fight for what he perceives as is in the best interest of his country.

Look what blind submission got Japan. Controversy military bases aside, what did the Plaza Accord do to Japan and its economy? Many argue that Japan has never recovered from the repercussions.

4 ( +7 / -3 )

You may not like the man, or what he says or does, but you'll have to admit he has the guts to stand up to the big brother and fight for what he perceives as is in the best interest of his country.

Stand up to big brother? Hardly. More like drop to his knees for China, while he waits for Russia to join in. The US state department hasn't received any word from the Philippines about severing ties. I have no problem with Duterte wanting to find a better position for his country, but the way he did it, just seems to lack any self-respect. And if you think they're just killing drug users and traffickers, you're kidding yourself. You can basically kill anyone and say you suspected them of dealing with drugs, and that's supposed to be OK. It's beyond shady.

1 ( +5 / -4 )

snake - dislike

0 ( +2 / -2 )

Stand up to big brother? Hardly. More like drop to his knees for China

He's doing both at the same time. They don't have to be mutually exclusive.

-2 ( +2 / -4 )

Abe's definitely going to pitch his "we must alienate China" policy to Duterte, but Duterte can't play China the fools he plays Japan so well. He'll nod, take the free weapons from Abe, then do whatever China asks.

3 ( +5 / -2 )

Caution is advised when making deals with China...it could go badly for the Philippine people in he decades to come.

0 ( +3 / -3 )

So far, the scraps is about $13.5 dollars loans and investments. people seem to think that loans and investments are free! they have to be paid back eventually and its just another tool to keep control over a poorer nation like the Phillippines. I can guarantee that the waters that China has taken from the Philippines, hold far more marine and natural resources than $13.5billion. So it seems China has got a far better deal than the Phillippines! Once again Duterte has traded one master for another that also is stealing their sovereignty, Itll cost the Philippines far more in the future

0 ( +3 / -3 )

China's fpreign ccy reserve coming short soon. Japan Stop behaving like the world ATM and let China play that role History proved no matter how much you spent, they don't appreciate enough

-1 ( +0 / -1 )

Which country is under Chinese puppet state control?ah Hongkong and Tibet

-5 ( +2 / -7 )

Which country is under Chinese puppet state control?ah Hongkong and Tibet

Neither Hong Kong nor Tibet is a 'country'.

3 ( +6 / -3 )

Just think Japan needs to say no more handouts and pull back on what they had intended to give. Would not serve their interests to damage the actual trade relationship, but as far as equipment is concerned and free aid, they should make it clear those days are over. Japan cannot afford to give away anything to anyone. Least of all to a country that now wants to bat for the other team. South Korea should make that clear as well. Not exactly flush with funds these days.

0 ( +0 / -0 )

Duterte's days are numbered. Shouldn't be too long before he falls to a coup

Yup, americas mode of operation. Doesn't change the fact that the tide is changing and the empire is in decline. Only a matter of time now.

-2 ( +2 / -4 )

Neither Hong Kong nor Tibet is a 'country'. thats not the point, they were once a sovereign territory/region , Tibet with its own specific culture, now they're under Chinas puppet control, just as the Philippines is becoming.

-1 ( +5 / -6 )

Neither Hong Kong nor Tibet is a 'country'. thats not the point, they were once a sovereign territory/region , Tibet with its own specific culture, now they're under Chinas puppet control, just as the Philippines is becoming.

Hong Kong was a sovereign territory/region? According to who? Hong Kong was Chinese land until it was leased to Britain as a crown colony. When the lease was up, it was returned to China.

"Tibet with its own specific culture" - so do the Ainu people in Hokkaido and the Ryuku people in Okinawa. By your reasoning, Hokkaido and Okinawa are under Japanese puppet control?

2 ( +5 / -3 )

So far, the scraps is about $13.5 dollars loans and investments. people seem to think that loans and investments are free! they have to be paid back eventually and its just another tool to keep control over a poorer nation like the Phillippines.

China. Whay don't you rapay the $13.5 billion debt from ADB first. Don't you dare to put this buyout onto project list of AIIB

-2 ( +3 / -5 )

@iworld99

"Eh, no. USA and Canada mutually recognizes Vancouver as part of Canada."

Yeah, I know. It's something called territorial integrity. Good neighbors respect one another's property and don't go building a garage or hobby shed on their nighbor's side of the property line because it would be illegal as well as arrogant.

iworld99 stated: "So, it is not the same as the dispute between China and the Philippine."

Well, first of all, the USA has not invaded one inch of Canada because it respects the territorial integrity of its northern neighbor's border, and Mexico's to the south as well. On the other hand, if you're saying that the islands (along with their water and airspace) which China has seized near the Philippine coast and have been a part of the Philippines (the UN doesn't agree with you either, by the way) never did belong to anyone at all in the first place, then that's one opinion on the matter which is also strongly favors China's position. If you are Chinese, then that's your personal opinion would make a great deal of sense. However, there are probably many people in the Philippines (as well as the UN) who would strongly disagree with your views that the islands and waters in question are no one's at all.

The key word here is territorial integrity. Go ahead and ask the people of Tibet what they think territorial integrity means, they might be too afraid to give you an honest answer but go ahead and try.

1 ( +4 / -3 )

Duterte obviously never bothered to open a history book, but he'll soon find out what happens to uppity dictators who piss off their Uncle. He's probably made the weekly list already, and once Hitlery has approved and signed off on it he'll be "brought to justice" in one way or another.

0 ( +3 / -3 )

“We can only write the speeches,” says one communications official, “we can’t make him read them.”

http://www.wsj.com/articles/behind-philippine-leaders-break-with-the-u-s-a-lifetime-of-resentment-1477061118

-1 ( +0 / -1 )

Duterte basically went to China, lifted up his skirt, and bent over.

That's not as extreme as the US military using Subic Bay as a floating brothel.

-2 ( +2 / -4 )

Let's see... the US got booted out of Clark and Subic to make the Philippines feel more independent, but somehow it remained a client of the US all these intervening years? What went wrong there? Could it be that the oligarchy loves America too much?

Let's wait and see. Sure, the Chinese really respect Duterte and their little offshore Asian cousins. Didn't they just give him a marching band welcome? And with baton twirlers no less. I think it does all add up to a coup in the foreseeable future.

-2 ( +1 / -3 )

The little Hitler of South East Asia has played a dangerous game--using the Filipino people's national interests as a means for his personal interest gains. Prime Minister Abe may advice him that both Japan and the United States just want to help the Southeast Asian nation to stand firm against Xi Jin-ping's neo-colonial ambitions, and Duterte must cease his Quixotic acts before it's too late.. The civilized world and the Filipino people will not tolerate an elected President evolving to a mass-murderer. .Also, Duterte apparently didn't know anything about the Communist methods of using the barbarians against the barbarians. The Chinese gongchan chains and shackles will not be easily escaped. Look at Viet Nam under the Chinese "socialist friendship."

-3 ( +3 / -6 )

They better clone him. When his time is up, their going to need another Duterte to keep China in check. If they elect someone weak...like say...an Obama type, they will just get pushed around.

-2 ( +3 / -5 )

One way or another, Duterte will be gone before long, and remembered for the monster he is. He's only buddying up to China because he thinks China will respect Philippines' Maritimes claims if they are not hostile and he will have no reason to apologize for telling the US to go to hell. But won't he be surprised when China uses it to take the islands "nicely", and if not before then the people will take him down (if he hasn't cut all opposition to shreds in bullet fire) since they can't run to the US for help.

0 ( +4 / -4 )

The Chinese gongchan chains and shackles will not be easily escaped. Look at Viet Nam under the Chinese "socialist friendship."

Right. Even ethnic chinese country like Taiwan and HongKong started wishing to draw the firm line not to be crossed.

Also, Duterte apparently didn't know anything about the Communist methods of using the barbarians against the barbarians.

Well, as for this I am not sure. His grandPa was Chinese and his beloved master professor is the PH communist party founder. He grew up brewler

They better clone him. When his time is up, their going to need another Duterte to keep China in check

Of course. Manny Pacquiao is waiting as the top on the list. and US loves him so much.

-1 ( +1 / -2 )

I'm pretty sure Shinzo must be smiling a lot in his dreams nowadays.

American Echo Abe at least can talk as a free man like Duterte if only in his dreams!

He would be smilin in those dreams after telling them Amerikanos to get off those lands in Okinawa and close all those darn bases in Japan as well!

In fact he would also laught aloud after telling Obama to apologize for the Hiroshima and Nagasaki massacre and carpet bombing of Tokyo!

Unfortunately, Japan is acting truly like an independent nation only in his dreams!

Hoping his meeting with Duterte would instill some nerves and pride in him and turn his dream into reality.

Japan , like the PH should be puppets no more!

-3 ( +1 / -4 )

Abe will welcome him just like he welcomed Obama. He visited Japan.so biggest trade partner China. Beside that Japan is creating railroad transport system in Phillip' in.

0 ( +1 / -1 )

Save the red carpet. The writing was on the wall years ago, and Japan will follow suit as the US continues its pull back out of Asia just as was mentioned several years ago. No news or surprises here. All anyone has to do is actually see and compare who many US personnel are in Japan compared to just 5 yrs ago. The bigger question is the numbers have continually dropped and dropping, but yet our taxes are still supporting the mass employement of Japan's Military Labor Contract employees at a ratio of 90% to 1 military member. Save the tax cut the labor force. This system is over populated with too many contracted employees living the life as Japan gov employees out our expense..enough is enough. The US will continue to pull out among blah blah blah but they have proven to do nothing here for Japan. Turn the clock back in time, the Philippines would not have gotten away with such a stunt, that was then this is niow. way to go Obama and now soon to be yet again another Clinton...Japan is best and wise as they too will turn to China that is inevitable

1 ( +1 / -0 )

Duterte knows too well that USA is exporting war to the region just like in Syria, Iraq and Libya while China is silently engaging in trade and commerce.

Duterte is wise enough not to fall to the trap of his country being used as the staging ground for America's pivot of war in Asia.

Therefore he is a wise leader to place economy first and war the last off the bench!

Unlike Shinzo who capitulated and allow Japan and Okinawa to be takin advantaged of by the victorious virtual colonizer Amerika!

-1 ( +2 / -3 )

He is visiting Japan.so large trade partner Chinas. Just like other Asian countries that has US bases, he want GIs go away from his country. He might be able to lead his country independent. Japan will welcome him, the fellow Asian.

3 ( +4 / -1 )

Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte is chasing the dragon buttering up to the Government of China.

Duterte is drenched in the blood of his own people. Drug dependents and dealers don't die they just replicate. The only connection Abe san needs to make where Rodrigo Duterte is concerned, is into an adjacent wall socket.

0 ( +2 / -2 )

History will tell that Duterte prevented war in Asia by rejecting to be used as a pawn by USA in its pivot to war in the region.

He stopped the momentum of USA, Australia and Abe to provoke China to war.

War is good business for America but devastating for the Aleppos of the world.

Abe should learn a lesson or two from Duterte who is the only president of PH to know the danger of drugs and decided to do something about it.

1 ( +4 / -3 )

Abe chasing China from behind yet again. Please, if you want to be friends with the Philippines, go ahead. But I have a feeling it's always to get one up on China.

I'm glad to see that the Philippines had the balls to say enough is enough when it came to US servicemen raping local women/girls. Neither does the Japanese government has the balls to stand up for themselves, nor do they have any respect for the people of Ryukyu.

0 ( +4 / -4 )

Hi guys, today's news. Duerte backtracks on 'separation ' from U.S.

-4 ( +0 / -4 )

Duterte did no backtracking.

He said separation of foreign policy not severance of ties.

Gets?

3 ( +5 / -2 )

Abe will learn why he and all Asians do not want to be treated as US colony. Also, he will think to make Japan make one more island like China in case Russia refuses to give back Northern islands

2 ( +3 / -1 )

YubaruOCT. 22, 2016 - 06:59AM JST Sounds to me like Duterte is the Philippines version of Trump, playing upon people's fears, getting into bed with a potential adversary, while all along sticking with the people who butter his bread.

You just don't know what you're saying. You have been conditioned by all of these int'l media.

1 ( +1 / -0 )

It's difficult to be of any Asian nationality and side with constant generational USA grade-school taunts. Those taunts are inspiration for some to harm Asia to gain favor and special status in the USA and for others to unite with Asia and admonish the septic throne of US opinion and policy.

Please help unite Asia.

0 ( +0 / -0 )

It's difficult to be of any Asian nationality and side with constant generational USA grade-school taunts. Those taunts are inspiration for some to harm Asia to gain favor and special status in the USA and for others to unite with Asia and admonish the septic throne of US opinion and policy.

Please help unite Asia.

Frankly, I don't understand what you mean to say.

United Asia was seeked and challenged by Japan.

Asia for Asians by Japanese failed before Asia for Chinese by Chinese on going but will fail. Asia for US/Asians by Americans slipping away Asia for Asians by Asians, then Asia for the world by Asians yet needs quite efforts

-1 ( +0 / -1 )

Duterte will give half of philippine islands to China because he is president. He can do what he wants. You pinoy elect him for domestic reason and dont care about remotr islands with no budget to maintain. Its better off this ways since pinoy cant compete economically and in poor state. No trouble, evrybody happy. Please give JOLO archipelago.

-1 ( +0 / -1 )

Noypikantoku,

“this came from his own dirty mouth "TABLAHIN NA NATIN ANG AMERICA", ok let me give you some tagalog lessons here just in case you are not a filipino. In tagalog that statement means" Let's Ditch america from now on", and TABLA is a very inpolite word, very negative.”

He is a politician, what do you expect? He would say anything to get the most benefits from China so don’t think too much into his words. Think about his action afterwards, were there anything happened so serious that damage the ties between US and PH? From an article written by Matthew J. Strabone in the Diplomat, “Despite his bluster, however, it is equally likely that Duterte is simply trying to gain more concessions and aid from Washington by showing the United States that it can’t take its relationship with the Philippines for granted.” You can see that all US officials are now talking so nicely about the PH and its actions against drug dealers.

“Duterte is crazy, A sane person would not encourage his own citizen to hate or say the most rudest things especialy if it's subjected to someone who is helping you.”

As the president, he knew something that the rest of us did not know especially on the part you said the US is helping PH. He implied in many of his speeches that PH is being used for the benefits of the US while the PH people are suffering. Let me ask you this, what more would the PH lose by being closer to China? Nothing. I can only see the benefits that PH would gain by doing so. It’s safer for the world for one thing.

You still don’t understand how China can help PH and the US can’t. You talk about the rail roads will benefit China more. Of course, China would not lose on the deals but in the long run PH will benefit more in terms of improved connectivity and networks. Because of the improved business environment and infrastructure, more foreign investments will be pouring in and more jobs will follow. Why do you think almost every country in SE Asia want to build rail roads and upgrade their infrastructures? As you know the US can’t build rail roads for the PH, it doesn’t even have high speed train. Also, building rail roads has nothing to do with independence, it’s about improving standard of living for the people. The US gives PH about $500 mil a year, where do you think it’s all gone to? OK besides someone’s pockets, a lot is used to buy US weapons to kill its own people. Did you see any improvement in PH for the last five years? Yes, it’s the government job to look after its citizen, that is what Duterte is trying to do.

“YES! Tell me, what made China rich? did you really think they made it on their own? come on. US moved all their production to china because china was cheap, little that they know china is not really that loyal and top class back stabbers. And US investing on china is the biggest mistake they've ever done.”

Let me ask you this, US companies set up shops in China and sent the products to the US, who benefit the most. Of course, the US companies, they make so much money and that also improve their standards of living in the US. By this time China has paid back the West many folds over. China is still suffering from pollution that are likely caused by those factories. Claims that the US has helped China is a laugh, US never helps anyone without expecting more benefits in return. So, what made China rich? It’s hard working and highly educated people, and effective government policies that made China rich.

“HAHAHAHAH! Where are these tools of wars!?!? Im sorry but I don't see PH possesing tools for chaos and destruction from America. all we have is an old rusty battle ship guarding us from.... CHINESE...”

Do you know that the main supplier of arms for PH is the US? Fighting whom you asked, those insurgents and terrorists that the US helped created in the South, I may say. Why do you think Duterte mentioned about removing the US forces from the South? It’s because the US caused more fighting and deaths there so that more US arms are needed. Why do you think Duterte wants to buy weapons from China, to fight China with?

Duterte has mentioned that China has never invaded PH ever. So did he forget about his country's history? Of course not, he knew full well that those rocks and islands are Chinese from the beginning. China chose to build those rocks into islands just so that the territorial disputes can be contained, you see China can easily take all of them back by force but it chose not to do so. Now think, there has been US and PH defense treaty in place for decades already, but where was the US when China took back those rocks and reefs? The US knows full well that those are Chinese territories.

So you are expecting “a big chaotic problem because of Duterte.” What did you expect new PH government to do? Confronting China? Who is going to pay for the war? Who is going to suffer the most? The US will not help PH fight with China, that is a given. But the US will benefit from arms sale to PH and other surrounding countries. Only time will tell whether China has good intention for the world, even right now many countries are turning towards China, are they all wrong?

0 ( +1 / -1 )

Duterte is good for PH.

Having business deals with China is good.

Even USA and Japan do business with Beijing.

Can people imagine that after 100 years of US special treaty relations Mindanao still got no trains?

Germany was supposed to build railways there but was suffocated by red tape and corruption.

So congratulations PH for having such a savvy prexy who truly cares for his people rather than his own wallet!

0 ( +0 / -0 )

flowers

You can see that all US officials are now talking so nicely about the PH and its actions against drug dealers.

Uhm Duterte is currently being ignored by Washington due to their busy election. And you made me laugh about trying to say that America will bend to Philippines!? hahaha you have so many high hopes my friend. If Washington would make a statement congratulationg Duterte and officially making a statement about their support to Duterte's viglante tactics, and then I would say that indeed America changed their stances.But the truth is, his actions didn't really affect anything and was just being ingored by the USA because he is not in thje priority list and can be just handled later on.

You still don’t understand how China can help PH and the US can’t

Yup, because tresspassing in our own territory, destroying our natural resources and prohibiting our fishermen to do their jobs makes me really think that China is really indeed doing help to Philippines.

The US gives PH about $500 mil a year

Proof my friend, heresays won't help.

As you know the US can’t build rail roads for the PH, it doesn’t even have high speed train.

you keep on insisting about US building railroads in PH, Asnwer my question first, WHY IS IT US's RESPONSIBILITY TO BUILD TRAINS IN THE PHILIPPINES? it's not America's job to build trains there, this is not their country, so why?

Because of the improved business environment and infrastructure, more foreign investments will be pouring in and more jobs will follow

Investments already poured for the last 5 years or so and kept growing because of these, and most of these businesses are from US and Europe. Nothing much from China dude.

Do you know that the main supplier of arms for PH is the US? Fighting whom you asked, those insurgents and terrorists that the US helped created in the South, I may say.

Proof? where?

It’s hard working and highly educated people,

just ask each every countries globally, among the tourists that travels their land which nationality have the worse un-educated manners of all.

So did he forget about his country's history? Of course not, he knew full well that those rocks and islands are Chinese from the beginning

Nope do the math and common sense, these areas where the Chinese oppresors built their manmade islands are much closer to the Philippines. This is why I don't think China can help our country!

Yup indeed before they didn't invade Philippines, because they still were not able to, they don't have money and capability, they cannot even beat Japan during WW2. But now that China got the money, this is the start of their invasion.

Confronting China? Who is going to pay for the war? Who is going to suffer the most? The US will not help PH fight with China, that is a given. But the US will benefit from arms sale to PH and other surrounding countries. Only time will tell whether China has good intention for the world, even right now many countries are turning towards China, are they all wrong?

So now you are admitting that CHINA is indeed provoking confrontations with Philippines and the best way to handle it is to become their lapdogs and allow them to bully us? Countries turning towards China???? haha which countries? the other way around, countries are turning against China. Japan, Vietnam, Indonesia, Philippines, Malaysia, etc. It all came from Duterte's own mouth... Us (Philippines) China and Russia against the WORLD, Duterte undesrtand that fact and I think you didn't.

0 ( +0 / -0 )

Looks like the Philippines didn't have a good relationship with Obama. According to some other media, Duterte called Trump and is looking forward to a better relationship than the current administration.

0 ( +0 / -0 )

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