PDut: US is ‘perfectly alright’

PRESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte clarified Tuesday that the Philippines harbors no ill-feelings towards its long-time ally, the United States (US), while pursuing close cooperation with China and Russia.

Duterte said the US is “perfectly alright” but that he has to implement his independent foreign policy, which main objective is to veer away from the country's dependence on traditional allies.

“I have nothing against America. They're perfectly alright. [US President Donald] Trump is my friend. But my foreign policy has shifted from the pro-Western one. I am now working on alliance with China, and I hope to start a good working relationship with Russia,” Duterte told Russian television network RT prior to his week-long visit to Russia.

Duterte is currently in Moscow, Russia for a four-day official visit.

In his departure speech in Davao City Monday, the President said he was expecting that he would be able to correct

the university for their entrance. What’s worse is we can not really distinguish members and non-members of the ISIS group. Much like what happened in Amai Pakpak where the medical staff openly welcomed them and realizing that they are ISIS when its too late,” the professor said.

Following the attack in Marawi City, authorities said the cities of Iligan and Cagayan de Oro have been placed on full alert status.

Cagayan de Oro City Mayor Oscar Moreno said he has talked with Police Senior Superintendent Robert Roy Bahian, the city police director, Vice Mayor Raineir Joaquin `Kikang’ Uy, and City Councilor Romeo Calizo, the committee chair for police, fire, and public safety.

Moreno said he has directed Calizo to assist him in his duties as chairman of the Regional Peace and Order Council (RPOC) and said Calizo is already working closely with 4th Infantry Division officials to beef up the city’s security.

“I call upon our people to remain calm but at the same time be always vigilant and observant. I urge our barangay officials and leaders to closely oversee their respective barangays and to immediately report any unusual activities,” Moreno said.

Cagayan de Oro City Police Office (Cocpo) spokesperson Mardy Hortillosa urged residents to report any incident to the nearest police station or contact their hot line number at 09364017888.

Misamis Oriental Governor Yevgeny `Bambi’ Emano likewise said security has also been tightened in Lugait town, the Misamis Oriental municipality which borders Lanao del Sur.

Police Superintendent Lemuel Gonda, spokesperson of the Police Regional Office-10 , said heightened security measures include the setting up of more checkpoints in the entry and exit points of the city and its neighboring areas.