Duterte: US took American bombing suspect from Davao City in 2002

The United States disrespected the Philippines when supposed US Embassy officials took an American bombing suspect from a Davao City hospital and brought him out of the country, said President Rodrigo Duterte.

"Binastos tayo ng America," said the President during a press conference at the Davao International Airport late Friday evening.

He was referring to Michael Terrence Meiring, who in 2002 was charged with possession of explosives but was able to leave the country.

Duterte, who was Davao City mayor at that time, related that after the explosion at the Evergreen Hotel in Davao City Meiring was brought to the hospital.

US Embassy officials, carrying a citation, arrived and took custody of Meiring explaining that the suspect will be brought to Makati Medical Center for treatment.

"But what they did is fly out to Singapore and then to the United States. To this day parang Batman and Robin mystery, no explanation," said Duterte.

The President also mentioned that he had a meeting with former US Embassador Francis Ricciardone, who was accompanied by an aide.

"They promised they will conduct a full investigation. Hanggang ngayon wala akong natanggap, maski note man lamang," the President sad.

It was at this point that Duterte became emotional, saying that with this the United States showed disrespect.

He underscored that this was a disrespect to the sovereignty of the country.

"Kung tayong ginagawa sa atin, there was not even an apology sa atin," he said.

"Kaya ako galit, kasi binastos nila ako. Is that mutual respect? It has not appeased me at all," he added. — Bernadette A. Parco/NB, GMA News