A grand total of 10 deals were inked both by the Philippines and Russia even though President Duterte left early in order to manage the insurgency in Mindanao. Among the 10 deals signed include an agreement on defense and cooperation.

The signing was done in Moscow together with Philippine government officials just a day after President Duterte flew back to the Philippines on Wednesday, May 24,

Foreign Secretary Alan Peter Cayetano led the signing ceremony together with Trade Secretary Ramon Lopez; Tourism Secretary Wanda Teo; Agriculture Secretary Manny Pino; and Science and Technology Secretary Fortunato dela Pena.

The Philippine President’s request for a soft loan was not part of the defense deal. The signed agreement, however, “will take the form of official visits, exchange and experiences in consultation, participation of observers in military training exercises, military port calls,” says Philippine Ambassador to Russia Carlos Sorreta.

On the soft loan side, DFA Secretary Cayetano said that the Russian government is open to providing the necessary assistance but it requested the Philippines to send a list of items it requires.

Source: Rappler