UCA News
Contribute

Philippine bishop says Duterte should meet Trump

White House visit a chance to press for leniency for Filipino migrants in US, he says
Philippine bishop says Duterte should meet Trump

President Rodrigo Duterte speaks with U.S. President Donald Trump on the phone on the sidelines of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations meeting in Manila. (Photo by King Rodriguez)

Published: May 02, 2017 09:16 AM GMT
Updated: May 02, 2017 09:21 AM GMT

A leading Catholic bishop in the Philippines said President Rodrigo Duterte should accept a White House invitation by U.S. President Donald Trump to visit for the sake of Filipino migrants in America.

"It is a personal and privileged opportunity to appeal for Filipino immigrants for leniency and fair treatment," said Bishop Ruperto Santo of Balanga.

The prelate, head of the Episcopal Commission on Migrants and Itinerant People, said a meeting of the two leaders would "benefit the country."

Bishop Santos said it is a chance for Duterte to manifest to the U.S. government that Filipinos in America are "hardworking and trustworthy people."

"We are contributing much for the greatness and prosperity of America," said the prelate, adding that it is also a chance to "appeal for assistance for our occupied territories" in the South China Sea.

The South China Sea disputes involve maritime claims among several countries in the region, including China, The Philippines, Brunei, Indonesia, and Vietnam.

Several countries, including the United States, are conducting "freedom of navigation" operations in the area.

Trump invited Duterte to the White House in a phone call on April 29. 

The American leader, who marked his 100th day in office over the weekend, made the call after the conclusion of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) summit.

"It was a very friendly conversation, in which the two leaders discussed the concerns of [ASEAN] regarding regional security," read a media release from the White House.

In a speech at the conclusion of the ASEAN meeting in Manila, Duterte said he planned to urge Trump to exercise prudence on the North Korea issue.

"The Philippines welcomes the United States' efforts to consult with its allies and partners in the region on this shared concern," said Duterte spokesman Ernesto Abella.

The U.S. is a dialogue partner of ASEAN, and is the oldest and most powerful ally of the Philippines, one of only two treaty allies of the U.S. in Southeast Asia.

Help UCA News to be independent
Dear reader,
Lent is the season during which catechumens make their final preparations to be welcomed into the Church.
Each year during Lent, UCA News presents the stories of people who will join the Church in proclaiming that Jesus Christ is their Lord. The stories of how women and men who will be baptized came to believe in Christ are inspirations for all of us as we prepare to celebrate the Church's chief feast.
Help us with your donations to bring such stories of faith that make a difference in the Church and society.
A small contribution of US$5 will support us continue our mission…
William J. Grimm
Publisher
UCA News
Asian Bishops
Latest News
UCA News Catholic Dioceses in Asia
UCA News Catholic Dioceses in Asia
UCA News Catholic Dioceses in Asia