Duterte to visit Japan to strengthen partnership

MANILA, Philippines - President Rodrigo Duterte will be making an official visit to Japan on Oct. 25-27, 2016, according to Presidential Communications Assistant Secretary for Operations and Special Concerns Ana Maria Paz Banaag.

It can be remembered that Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, in his congratulatory letter sent after President Duterte won the elections, invited him to visit Japan, which he accepted during a bilateral meeting on the sidelines of the 28th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) summit.

"During his visit, the president will meet with Prime Minister Shinzo Abe to discuss matters of mutual interests to both countries," Banaag said during a press briefing Malacanang early today.

Banaag also said that Duterte plans to make a state call on Emperor Akihito.

Duterte is also set to meet and speak before the top business leaders of Japan, as well as to observe the process of Japanese shipbuilding as the maritime cooperation between Japan and the Philippines continues to progress.

He also plans to meet with the 400,000 Filipino community while in Japan, according to Banaag.

"The president places great value on the Philippines' vibrant and dynamic relationship based on mutual trust and respect with Japan," Banaag said.