Aquino justifies S. Korea trip as Visayas deals with quake devastation

Philippine President Benigno Aquino III. AP FILE PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines – President Benigno Aquino III on Thursday defended his decision to push through with his trip to South Korea, amid the devastation wrought by a 7.2-magnitude earthquake that hit Bohol and other provinces, saying it was for the future.

“While we are working on the present, we should perhaps also not abandon the future,” he said during a televised press conference at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport.

Aquino assured the public that members of his Cabinet were in Bohol and Cebu to address the needs of those affected by the quake.

“In the mean time, I am going to South Korea to address the future [of the country]…,” he said.

The President said he was planning to lure more investors and tourists into the country while strengthening ties with South Korea.

During the visit, Aquino will meet South Korean President Park Geun-hye.

On Tuesday, a 7.2-magnitude earthquake hit Bohol, Cebu and other provinces in Visayas and Mindanao, killing at least 156 people.

Related Stories:

Aquino leaves for S. Korea Thursday morning for 2-day state visit

South Korea to honor President Aquino’s father during state visit