Palace: Duterte discussed security deals with Russia

President Rodrigo Duterte discussed security cooperation between the Philippines and Russia during a visit from a delegation from Moscow, a move described by the Palace as part of the Duterte administration's shift toward an independent foreign policy.

Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella said this a day after Duterte, along with the National Security Council, met with a delegation from the Russian Federation led by Security Council Secretary Nikolay Patrushev in Davao City on Thursday.

“The President sought closer ties with Russia and yesterday’s meeting between President Duterte and the Security Council of the Russian Federation where government-to-government cooperation in the fields of security, intelligence, terrorism, crime and law enforcement were discussed is a concrete example of the improving ties between the two nations,” said Abella.

“The President’s decision to pivot with Russia forms part of his independent foreign policy. We seek new or enhanced partnerships based on equality," he added. 

According to the National Security Council Secretariat, the memoranda of agreement on the following fields were discussed during the meeting:

• Security and intelligence
• Defense and military
• Law enforcement
• Terrorism and transnational crime
• Anti-illegal drugs work plan
• Maritime law enforcement

Duterte was joined in the meeting with Russian officials by National Security Adviser Secretary Hermogenes Esperon, Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, Interior Secretary Ismael Sueno, Armed Forces of the Philippines chief of staff Gen. Eduardo Año, and other officials.

The Philippines and Russia are expected to sign a number of memoranda on understanding when Duterte pays a visit to Moscow.

Lorenzana previously said that Duterte may visit Russia sometime in April or May.

Abella clarified that Duterte administration's strengthened relations with Russia would not compromise the Philippines existing ties with other countries.

"This new alliance will not exclude other relationships. The United States will remain an ally,” said the Palace spokesman. —MDM/JST, GMA News