Duterte sends sympathies to Turkey during inaugural speech

In what may be considered his first diplomatic act, President Rodrigo Duterte on Thursday expressed sympathies for Turkey after an airport bombing that left more than 40 people dead.

“On behalf of the people, our condolences to the Republic of Turkey [for] what has happened in the place. We offer our deepest condolences,” Duterte said just before he ended his inaugural speech.

A BBC report on Thursday said the death toll has risen to 42 while 128 people are still in the hospital.

A number of the victims were foreign nationals.

While there were no Filipinos hurt, several were stranded because of the triple suicide bombing at Istandbul’s Ataturk Airport on Wednesday (Manila time).

READ: Amy Perez, 11 other Pinoys affected by Turkey suicide bombing

Earlier in his speech, Duterte vowed to uphold all international agreements.

“In the international front and community of nations, let me reiterate that the Republic of the Philippines will honor treaties and international obligations,” he said. CDG/rga

READ: Duterte vows to uphold all existing peace, int’l agreements