PH, Korea to sign 4 agreements during PRRD visit

MANILA -- The Philippines and South Korea are scheduled to sign at least four agreements, including a loan for a Cebu port project, when President Rodrigo Duterte makes his first official visit to Seoul on June 3 to 5.

Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Ernesto Abella said the two nations would sign three memoranda of understanding that would boost cooperation in the field of transportation, science and technology, and trade and economy.

Also set to be signed is a loan agreement for the Cebu International Container Port project.

Duterte and South Korean President Moon Jaein are also scheduled to meet for a dialogue and discuss, among others, the rehabilitation of wartorn Marawi City. South Korea donated $100,000 or about P5 million for the city’s rehabilitation.

The two leaders may touch on the Philippines and Korea's social cooperation, agricultural cooperation, and environmental cooperation, Abella said.

"Basically, these are the general topics that will be discussed with them. There may be some other topics or subjects but that would be raised up between them," Abella said.

The signing of the deals is part of both countries' commitment to strengthen their bilateral ties. "The significance of this visit basically has to do with conveying to the Republic of Korea the importance of its partnership with the Philippines, and to reaffirm the strength of Philippine-Republic of Korea relations," Abella said in a press conference on Friday, June 1.

Abella said the President would also participate in the business launch and forum organized by the Department of Trade and Industry in the host country.

Duterte would also take part in the Philippine Food Festival initiated by the Department of Agriculture and will be held in E-mart, the largest retailer in South Korea.