THE Philippines and South Korea are scheduled to sign at least four agreements, including a loan for a Cebu port project, when President Rodrigo Duterte makes his first official visit to Seoul on June 3 to 5.
Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Ernesto Abella said the two nations would sign three memoranda of understanding that would boost cooperation in the field of transportation, science and technology, and trade and economy.
Also set to be signed is a loan agreement for the Cebu International Container Port project.
Duterte and South Korean President Moon Jae-in are also scheduled to meet for a dialogue and discuss, among others, the rehabilitation of war-torn Marawi City. South Korea donated $100,000 or about P5 million for the city's rehabilitation.
The two leaders may touch on the Philippines and Korea's social cooperation, agricultural cooperation, and environmental cooperation, Abella said.
"Basically, these are the general topics that will be discussed with them. There may be some other topics or subjects but that would be raised up between them," Abella said.
The signing of the deals is part of both countries' commitment to strengthen their bilateral ties.
"The significance of this visit basically has to do with conveying to the Republic of Korea the importance of its partnership with the Philippines, and to reaffirm the strength of Philippine-Republic of Korea relations," Abella said in a press conference on Friday, June 1.
Although the abduction and killing of Korean businessman Jee Ick-Joo is "not part of the agenda" during the two leaders' dialogue, Duterte is expected to assure Moon that the suspects will be brought to justice if the issue is raised.
Jee was taken from his home in October 2016 in the guise of legitimate police anti-drug operation. The South Korean national was allegedly killed by rogue cops in Camp Crame in Quezon City the same day he was abducted.
"It's not part of the agenda. But if raised at all, it may be on a side basis. I'm sure he (Duterte) will reassure them that everything that needs to be done is being done. And that he will assure justice will be done," he said.
During his three-day stay in Korea, Duterte would also meet with the Filipino community. The DFA estimates that there are about 68,000 Filipinos working and residing in South Korea.
Abella said the President would also participate in the business launch and forum organized by the Department of Trade and Industry in the host country.
Duterte would also take part in the Philippine Food Festival initiated by the Department of Agriculture and will be held in E-mart, the largest retailer in South Korea.
The Philippines and South Korea established their diplomatic relationship on March 3, 1949. (VoxPop Philippines)