President upbeat about visit

President Duterte is upbeat about his three-day official visit to South Korea.

Duterte, in a speech before leaving for Seoul yesterday, said he will work on taking cooperation between the Philippines and South Korea to a whole new level, adding that the Philippines has a lot to learn from its Asian neighbor in terms of economy.

"In my talks with President Moon Jae-in, I will explore ways to bring cooperation to a whole new level. This will be based on respect for sovereign equality and for the democratic ideals that we both fought hard to secure," he said.

"There is much to learn from South Korea’s experience and expertise. Despite seemingly insurmountable challenges, the Republic of Korea successfully transformed itself into one of the most advanced and progressive economies in the world," Duterte added.

He lauded how the two countries remain shoulder-to-shoulder in defense of freedom and democracy for 70 years. He said the Philippines is now ready for a new chapter in its friendship with South Korea.

"Today, we stand shoulder-toshoulder in advancing our shared aspirations and in facing threats to our nations, our peoples, and in our region," he said. "As a long-standing partner, the Republic of Korea has already joined the Philippines in our efforts to achieve inclusive and sustainable economic development growth," Duterte said.

"Yet, there is much room for even healthier growth across the areas of mutual interests. The Philippines stands ready to write a new chapter of closer ties, deeper amity, and more comprehensive collaboration with South Korea."

Duterte reassured the public that all efforts to seek a reinvigorated partnership with South Korea and all other countries is grounded on national interest, common goals, and adherence to time-honored principles of international law.