Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte was his usual playful self amid visiting a country known for strict discipline and protocols. Duterte met with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe in Tokyo last October 30.
Known for deviating from his prepared speeches, the Filipino president drew laughter from the audience when he said that he will skip two pages of his toast remarks and just go directly to the last page because he is hungry.
Duterte said that although it is his second time to visit Japan as president, his personal interest and excitement has not diminished. He took the meeting as an opportunity to look the accomplishments by both countries since the Philippines and Japan Strategic Partnership in 2016. The President also added that the friendship between the two countries are held dearly and are much valued beyond words.
Prime Minister Abe thanked Duterte for hosting him in his visit to the Philippines in January this year. Abe said that he is very pleased with how their relationship have deepened over time like a family.
Duterte visited this second wealthiest Asian nation for two days to further improve relations between Manila and Tokyo under Duterte’s and Abe’s administration and syrike a $6 billion worth of deals with Japanese companies.
Also discussed were the Japan-funded Manila subway system and Japan’s pledge to support the rebuilding of Marawi City.
Duterte’s second visit to Japan made it possible to meet with Japanese Emperor Akihito and wife Empress Michiko at the historic Imperial Hotel.
Reference: ‘I am hungry’: Duterte jokes during toast remarks in Japan visit
