MANILA, Philippines — President Rodrigo Duterte’s admission that he owed a great debt to China over its donation and delivery of COVID-19 vaccines does not mean that the country’s chief executive is giving up the sovereignty over the West Philippines Sea, Malacaang said Thursday.
Duterte, during his public address Wednesday night,described China as a “good friend,” with which the Philippines owned a “big debt of gratitude.”
Explaining Duterte’s remarks, presidential spokesperson Harry Roque said the Presidenthas vowed that he will not compromise the sovereignty of the Philippines and there is a limit to the “friendship” between China and the Philippines.
“Hindi po,” Roque …
Keep on reading: Duterte not giving up sovereignty despite ‘debt of gratitude’ to China — Palace