Just Like What We Said

2 September 2018

First Philippine Airlines plane in Israel, the Airbus A350-900 (RP-C3501)

Philippine President Rodrigo R, Duterte has embarked on a visit to Israel via PAL A350-900 (see our report here), the first such trip by a Philippine president, as part of a regional tour that will also include a stop in Jordan.

The 73-year-old said on Sunday he would seek to re-affirm and renew relations with the two countries, where an estimated 76,000 Filipinos live and work.

"I leave today for landmark visits that underscore our vision for our country - a responsible member of the world community - a Philippines that is friend to all and an enemy to no one," Duterte said before departing for Tel Aviv.

At least 1,400 Filipinos are set to meet President Rodrigo Duterte when he arrives at the Ben Gurion International Airport in Tel Aviv 8:10pm Sunday night and will go immediately to the Ramada Hotel in Jerusalem for his meeting with the Filipino community.