Human rights-related issues avoided during meeting with Kerry
President Rodrigo Duterte confirmed that the United States expressed commitment to offer $32-million in military assistance, as discussed with U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry during his visit to the Philippines last week.
Speaking before members of the Presidential Security Group at the Malacañang Park on Sunday, July 31, Duterte announced that the U.S. is willing to financially support the Philippines in its war against drugs, terrorism and crime, and its stand on issues such as of climate change and maritime security.
“The money? Oh, 32, ‘Ah, I give you, $32 million,’” Duterte said, quoting what Kerry said.
The $32-million financial aid (P1.5 billion) will help to enforce lawful “training and services” including the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA).
Duterte, upon the juncture, consequently told Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana to come up with a wish list for the Armed Forces of the Philippines.
“So I asked Delfin Lorenzana, ‘What’s your priority?’ We did a god job in Sulu; I’m impressed. So buy more,” added Duterte, in reference to the military operations in Mindanao and the need to buy more weapons.
On the other hand, Kerry opened up the issue on human rights violations, which are being questioned as the killings of alleged drug suspects continue throughout the country.
However, Duterte abruptly told Kerry that he has “a job to do” and insisted to “go to another topic.”
As of press time, 3,213 individuals allegedly involved with drugs have been arrested, while 239 have been killed by the Philippine National Police (PNP), according to GMA News.
Last Wednesday, July 27, presidential spokesman Ernesto Abella clarified that “there was no alarm” shown after Duterte informed Kerry about “the way he has been handling the war against crime and especially the narcotics plague.”
Before meeting with the president, Kerry said, “I made it very clear that civil and human rights must be protected, even as we work together to keep our society safe.”
Aside from issues of drugs, terrorism, crime and maritime security, the two also discussed motorcycles and hunting.
“First, it was a courtesy call, it was a very interesting meeting because they share common interests,” the presidential spokesman commented.
http://asianjournal.com/news/duterte-confirms-us-to-give-32-m-for-military-assistance/
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