IN HIS first appearance this year, President Rodrigo Duterte asked Friday the Russian Navy to have frequent visits to the Philippines.
Duterte made the statement before the Russian Navy contingent during his visit to two Russian warships docked in Manila at Pier 15 in Port Area, Manila.
"Long live! It's from the heart. I hope you can come back more often [here in the Philippines]," the President said after the signing of warship's guestbook.
Duterte was able to have a tour at Russia's anti-submarine vessel Admiral Tributs with Russian Navy delegation, led by Russian Ambassador to the Philippines Igor Khovaev.
The Admiral Tributs is a 162 meter-long large anti-submarine ship under the Pacific Fleet of the Russian Navy.
On Tuesday, Admiral Tributs and sea tanker Boris Butoma arrived in the country for a four-day goodwill visit.
Duterte's spokesperson Ernesto Abella on Thursday said the goodwill visit of the Russian Navy would contribute to the strengthening of friendship with the Philippine Navy.
"It is also an indication that our maritime cooperation can further be enhanced in aid of diplomacy and camaraderie,” Abella added. (Sunnex)