ANALYSIS/OPINION:

In a continuing verbal salvo at the White House and the State Department over their criticism of Philippine President Duterte’s violent campaign against drug trafficking, the new strongman of the PI admitted he has sent Philippine armed forces officials to Russia to acquire weapons.

“Although it may sound shit to you, it is my sacred duty to keep the integrity of this republic and the people healthy,” Duterte said. “If you don’t want to sell arms, I’ll go to Russia. I sent the generals to Russia and Russia said ‘do not worry, we have everything you need, we’ll give it to you.’ And as for China, they said ‘just come over and sign and everything will be delivered’,” reports Reuters. Duterte previously mentioned he wanted “cheaper weapons with no strings attached.”

In addition, several weeks prior, the Philippines announced it would stop joint patrols with the U.S. Navy in the South China Sea, providing a public relations win to the Chinese government which recently lost a U.N tribunal’s ruling on Chinese actions and claims in the region. President Duterte also said he would review the agreement allowing U.S. forces and equipment in the Philippines and may “break up” with America at some point.

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