Duterte signals possible end to defense pact with U.S.

By JIM PURCELL

 Rodrigo Duterte

According to a Reuters report filed by Kiyoshi Takenaka and Linda Sieg published in the Huffington Post, Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte reportedly assured Japanese Government officials that he will remain on Tokyo's side relative to the ongoing South China Sea controversy with China.

This is despite the fact that, last week, he signaled a new ideological re-alignment between Manila and Beijing that was announced from the Great Hall, in Beijing. During the announcement, he stated that he is not allied with the interests of Washington anymore, especially militarily and diplomatically. However, he later qualified that, while he will not be antagonizing the U.S. on either front, he has removed Philippine and American interests from being the same internationally.

Shinzo Abe

Duterte went on to say that he might very well enter into an agreement with Russia, which would put "Russia, the Philippines and China against the world."

U.S. diplomats have remain quiet about Duterte's recent proclamations, despite the fact that, during his Japanese visit, he added that he might end defense treaties between the U.S. and the Philippines.

According to the reportShinzo Abe, who has tightened his ties with the U.S. recently, is left at a loss, as he is also attempting to build bridges with the Philippines.In characterizing Japan as a "special friend who is closer than a brother," Duterte said he would work side-by-side with Tokyo on regional issues, including the South China Sea controversy.