Aquino flies to South Korea for summit

Pres. Benigno Aquino III. Inquirer file photo.

MANILA, Philippines—President Benigno Aquino III on Thursday morning left for Busan, South Korea to attend a summit.

Malacañang earlier said that Aquino would be skipping the two-day Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean)-Republic of Korea commemorative summit to monitor the aftermath of Typhoon Ruby (international name: Hagupit, which has already left the country Wednesday night). He, however, later changed his mind, citing “encouraging reports” from the front lines.

Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Abigail Valte also said that Aquino’s decision was in accordance with the Philippines’ commitment to South Korea, one of its staunchest allies.

“This trip will afford the President the opportunity to articulate the Philippine position on issues of both national and global importance, including those connected to climate risk and disaster preparedness, and the dangers posed by the Ebola virus,” she explained.

Aquino is expected to be back in the country on Friday.

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