Duterte open to bilateral talks, joint exploration in resolving sea dispute

MANILA, Philippines – Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte on Tuesday evening said he is willing to conduct bilateral talks with China and to have joint exploration agreement to resolve the West Philippine Sea dispute.

In his campaign launch speech, Duterte drew the margin which can be settled upon by both the Philippines and China.

“Ano kaya kung joint venture na lang? Nobody claims it?” Duterte said.

The current administration rejects China’s offer of bilateral talks since the government said only negotiations engaged by the Association of Southeast Nations can be acceptable.

Watch how Duterte wants to resolve the sea dispute.

Text by: Rosette Adel, Video by: Efigenio Toledo IV