Duterte lauds outgoing US diplomat Kim for ‘successful’ tour of duty

President Rodrigo Duterte on Monday congratulated outgoing US Ambassador to the Philippines Sung Kim for his “successful tour of duty” in the country.

The Office of the Presidential Assistant on Foreign Affairs said Duterte acknowledged Kim’s contributions to strengthening Philippine-US ties in a farewell call.

“Duterte conferred on Ambassador Kim the Order of Sikatuna, with the rank of Datu (Grand Cross), Gold Distinction,” the office said in a statement.

For his part, Kim thanked Duterte for productive bilateral engagements.

The outgoing diplomat also reaffirmed the US’ commitment to strengthening its relationship with the Philippines.

In February this year, Duterte ordered the termination of the Philippines’ Visiting Forces Agreement with the US.

The Philippines later suspended the abrogation “in light of political and other developments in the region." — DVM, GMA News