Trump to discuss PHL drug war, South China Sea dispute in Manila visit —White House

US President Donald Trump will address the Philippines' controversial war on drugs and the territorial disputes in the South China during the 31st Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit this week.

"Our side is going to be talking about the drug war and ways in which that war could be prosecuted that conform with Philippine law and international norms for human rights," a senior administration official from the White House Press Office said in a background press call on Saturday.

Trump and the leaders of the 10-member regional bloc and their dialogue partners are converging in Manila this week for the 31st ASEAN Summit and Related Meetings.

He will likewise participate in the East Asia Summit to be held following the ASEAN Summit.

President Rodrigo Duterte said earlier that Trump supports his administration's anti-drug campaign, noting that the US president understands the way the Philippine government is handling the problem.

Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque's said earlier that the anti-drug campaign will not be part of Trump and Duterte's bilateral meeting on Monday.

Trump will also discuss the South China Sea dispute, particularly the Chinese encroachment and militarization in the disputed territories, according to the Washington official.

"That is one of the areas that the President will be discussing when he's in the Philippines," the official said.

"Very clear message, consistent message from the President on the importance of maintaining freedom of navigation ... And he will come through loud and clear," the official added.

Trump said on Sunday in Vietnam that he is prepared to mediate. 

"If I can help mediate or arbitrate, please let me know," Trump said in comments at the start of a meeting in Hanoi with Vietnamese President Tran Dai Quang. — Erwin Colcol/VDS, GMA News