Duterte hits US again before leaving for Japan
President Rodrigo Duterte has no intention of toning down his tirades against the United States.
Duterte on Tuesday rejected the request of a US Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs Daniel Russel to tone down his fiery rhetoric against America.
In a press conference before departing for a state visit to Japan, Duterte revealed Foreign Affairs Perfecto Yasay Jr. called him where the latter relayed the diplomat's reqquest to tone down his statements against the US.
"I said don't do it to me. Every they threaten us, including the European Union. They think they are brighter than us. Then they will say be careful, we'll put you in prison. Son of a bitch, just try," Duterte said.
Russel was quoted in news articles as saying Duterte's inflammatory statements against the US is sparking international distress.
"I've pointed out to Secretary Yasay that the succession of controversial statements, comments and a real climate of uncertainty about the Philippines' intentions has created consternation in a number of countries, not only in mine," Russel said
Duterte said he initially wanted to pass this up but he was offended by several reports that appeared in newspapers.
"I told myself these Americans are really crazy," said Duterte.
What is offensive, according to Duterte, is the US and EU warns they will cut their financial assistance if he does not stop with his tirades.
"Don't treat us like dogs. Do not say as if I am a dog with leash," Duterte fumed.
On Russel's comment his statements are causing worries in business communities, Duterte said: "They can all leave.. We will recover, I assure you. We will live and survive. We have gone to the worst of times in this planet." Emmanuel Tupas/DMS
