PRESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte said Wednesday that the Philippines would seek the help of China and Russia to combat terrorism in the country.
"[To end] terrorism, I can always go to other nations for help," the Chief Executive said at the celebration of 26th anniversary of Bureau of Jail Management and Penology at Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City.
"That is why I'm going to China and I'm going to Russia," he added.
Duterte's appeal for help from the two countries came after the May 23 attack of Islamic State-linked terrorists in Marawi City, which prompted him to place the entire Mindanao under martial rule.
The offensives of government forces against Islamist fighters are still ongoing in a bid to liberate Marawi City.
On June 28, China donated various firearms and ammunition worth 50 million RMB yuan.
The President said China was also set to deliver the second batch of assistance in September.
He, however, clarified that he does not seek any alliances as he asked for help.
"There'll be another shipment of arms in September. But I never suggested anything about alliances. But I told China that we can do joint military maneuvers," he said.
Duterte said the Philippines is also expecting Russia's aid "in due time."
He, however, did not elaborate what assistance the Russian government would provide to his administration. (SunStar Philippines)