Philippine Foreign Minister: America is still the best friend

The Philippines' foreign minister said the United States is still the country's best friend, but Manila wants to move away from a "dependent and subservient" mindset and strengthen ties with other countries.

Philippine Foreign Minister Perfecto Yasay. Photo: GMANetwork

Foreign Secretary Perfecto Yasay, in a Facebook comment yesterday, said the word "separation" "refers to breaking away from the mentality of dependence and subservience, both economically and militarily, maintaining our 'little brother' image with the United States, which weakens and hinders development and progress."

Mr Yasay said Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte told Chinese President Xi Jinping and other leaders during his visit to Beijing that "if they are not willing to support us, the Filipino people will decide their destiny alone, despite great difficulties".

According to Reuters, Mr. Yasay made the comment two days after President Duterte announced an economic and military "separation" from Washington, although Mr. Duterte later took a more conciliatory tone on October 21. The Philippine president clarified that he did not intend to sever relations with the US as he said and that Manila only benefits most when working side by side with Washington.

Yasay’s message is a sign that the Philippine government is once again trying to “put out the fire” after a shocking statement by Duterte. His economic managers were also quick to clarify that the Philippines is not cutting economic and trade ties with the US.

According to VNE