Former Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile cautioned President Rodrigo Duterte to consult Cabinet members first before issuing any foreign policy.
For Enrile, Duterte’s direction of opting for an independent policy is commendable but a consultation must first take place in order to prevent national security advisers from being blindsided in things, especially matters concerning the United States. This would prevent any development of sour relationships with his national security advisers.
“The president has the right to say those things, but he should consult those that should be consulted, if he needs consultation. But there is no doubt he has the right,” Enrile said in an interview through Radio DZBB.
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Enrile said that he understood Duterte’s stand in pursuing an independent foreign policy, adding that the Philippines should not have “special friends.” Instead, the country should befriend everyone or maintain a non-aligned position. He once again cautioned that such a position comes with its own consequences.
“That also comes with a burden, and you cannot discount that. You should know how to balance and how to use that system,” Enrile said.
The former Senate President also said that he understood the public’s confusion, given that the President’s statements are sometimes vague, leaving room for lots of interpretation.
“Clarity in diplomacy and with other countries is the most important to avoid any misunderstanding on the other side,” he said.
Enrile believes that Duterte’s foreign policy realignment to stop being dependent on the US would be good for the country but that he cannot completely sever ties with the said country.
“The only problem here is clarity. We must clarify our position in our relationship with other country. Clarity is the very important consideration,” Enrile said.
“You must not be ambiguous or vague in your position. It must be clearest in the most possible term, define your position so that there would be no miscues or misunderstanding. That’s so far how I understand from him,” he added.
Source: (mb.com.ph)
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