Duterte places Philippines in an untenable position

He must rise above personal dislikes for the sake of the country as his tirades are worrying investors and allies

Philippine president Rodrigo Duterte’s rhetoric and policy statements have left neighbours and long-time allies confused and concerned. Last week Duterte announced his nation’s ‘separation’ from the United States and then backtracked saying he did not plan to sever the country’s seven-decade alliance. In a meeting with the Philippines’ defence and foreign ministers, US assistant secretary of state for East Asian and Pacific Affairs Daniel Russel conveyed his concern by saying that many people around the world were becoming worried about the president’s repeated tirades.

The succession of comments and statements have left many wondering about the direction in which Duterte wants to take the country. On the one hand he has expressed his consternation for longtime ally America, on the other he has gravitated towards China.

On a recent visit to Beijing, he spoke about realigning with China and Russia. On his return he added that he did not care about the hundreds of millions in foreign aid from the US.

Duterte has repeatedly said the Philippines has not benefited from its ties with the US and has threated to cancel the two dozen war games held every year.

While the steady flow of statements from the president has left investors and countries worried, Duterte must realise that international relations must envision a long-term policy for the country. Personal relations, likes and dislikes have to be kept aside while planning the future of the country. Only if the aspirations and the good of the people are kept in mind, can a country rise above politics and work towards peace and prosperity.