"I just simply love Xi Jinping. He understands my problem and is willing to help." Duterte's 2019 press conference in Davao before leaving for China to attend the Boao Forum for Asia.
During his presidency, Rodrigo Duterte's administration maintained a controversial relationship with China, which has raised numerous questions regarding the motivations behind this alliance.
Duterte's aggressive anti-drug campaign, while initially hailed for its intent to curb drug-related crimes, has been marred by extrajudicial killings and human rights abuses. However, underneath this violence lies an uncomfortable reality: most of the illegal drugs flooding the Philippine market originate from China.
The apparent indifference of Duterte's government toward China's role in the drug trade supports the conclusion that his partner and friend, President Xi, and the Duterte administration are complicit.
Several reports indicate that significant quantities of illegal drugs, particularly methamphetamine, or "shabu" and cocaine, have been smuggled into the Philippines from Chinese sources. The largest drug smuggling cases in Philippine history – all of which originated from China - occurred during the first three years of Duterte's administration.
Let us also not forget the reports pointing to the direct participation of close members of the Duterte family – Pulong Duterte, Mans Carpio, and close aid Bong Go. The drug influx not only supports local drug distribution networks but has also fueled a culture of corruption within the Duterte administration.
The Duterte-Xi Jinping friendship has also sparked controversy due to ongoing territorial disputes in the West Philippine Sea. From Duterte's own words and actions, it is unmistakable that Duterte's misplaced affection and pathetic admiration for Xi compromised Philippine sovereignty—all but converting the Philippines into a province of China. This begs the question of the actual substance of the infamous "gentleman's agreement" between Duterte and Xi.
The dealings between Duterte and Xi suggest a partnership forged whereby Xi promised Duterte and his family an unending supply of illegal drugs from China in exchange for China's dominance over the West Philippine Sea and expanded influence in the Philippines. This friendship, born out of greed and ambition, bears the hallmarks of a deal made in hell.
Acting through his Philippine associate, Michael Yang—who is now evading the Philippine authorities—Yang was the operational force behind this arrangement.
Yang ensured that the drug supply remained rampant while simultaneously guaranteeing the continuous influx of drug money into Duterte's coffers. Yang established businesses in the Philippines that have served as fronts for these drug operations, which explains the political favors and protection that Duterte has given to him.
As the Philippines heads toward its next elections, the implications of Duterte's ties to China will remain a critical topic of discussion. However, it is crystal clear that the Dutz-Xi friendship is one out of hell.
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