Duterte leaves for Myanmar, Thailand

President Rodrigo Duterte on Sunday afternoon left for an official visit to Myanmar and Thailand in efforts to improve relations with the two countries ahead of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit next month.

"I leave today for the Republic of the Union of Myanmar and the Kingdom of Thailand. These official visits form the final leg of my introductory trips to my colleagues and friends in the ASEAN," Duterte said in a pre-departure conference at the Davao International Airport.

"These are timely meetings as our country prepares to host the 30th ASEAN Summit and related meetings in Manila this April," he added.

Duterte is scheduled to arrive in Myanmar late Sunday afternoon, and is set to meet with the Filipino community there in the evening.

He will have a courtesy call with various Filipino companies with operations on Monday, followed by meetings with several Myanmar officials such as State Counselor Aung San Suu Kyi, and Senior General Min Aung Hlaing.

Part of Duterte's official delegation were Acting Secretary of Foreign Affairs Enrique Manalo as well as Secretaries of Agriculture Emmanuel Piñol, Defense Delfin N. Lorenzana, and Trade Ramon Lopez.

Also with him were Senators Vicente C. Sotto III and Alan Peter S. Cayetano, as well as Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency chief Isidro Lapeña, and Ambassador to Myanmar Alex Chua.

"Myanmar is our Asian neighbor and friend with whom we have had relations for more than six decades now. My visit will underscore our commitment to deepen partnership with Myanmar towards a brighter and better future," Duterte said.

"From Myanmar I will proceed to Thailand," he said. He will be in the country from Monday, March 20 until Wednesday, March 22.

In Thailand, Duterte will also meet with several officials such as the Prime Minister, and other business officials in the country. He will also meet with the Filipino community. —ALG, GMA News