Duterte congratulates Trump, wishes ‘enhanced PH-US relations’

President Rodrigo Duterte and US President-elect Donald Trump —AFP PHOTOS

KUALA LUMPUR—President Rodrigo Duterte on Wednesday congratulated United States President-elect Donald Trump as he looked forward to an “enhanced Philippines-US relations anchored on mutual respect.”

“President Rodrigo Roa Duterte wishes to extend his warm congratulations to Mr. Donald Trump on his recent electoral victory as President of the United States of America,” Communications Secretary Martin Andanar said in a statement.

“The United States presidential election is a testament to the enduring traditions of its democratic system and the American way of life. The two-party system gives American voters freedom of choice based on party platforms, not just on personalities,” he said.

Andanar said Duterte wished Trump success in his next four years as America’s chief executive.

“(Duterte) looks forward to working with the incoming administration for enhanced Philippines-US relations anchored on mutual respect, mutual benefit and shared commitment to democratic ideals and the rule of law,” he said.

Duterte is currently in Thailand to condole with the royal family and the Thai people amid the recent death of King Bhumibol Adulyadej.

He is expected to arrive here on Wednesday afternoon as he embarks on his eighth Asian trip.