WASHINGTON, D.C. (The Adobo Chroncles, Manila Bureau) – There is no love lost between U.S. President Donald Trump and Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte, even after the latter decided to end the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA) between the two countries.
VFA allows U.S. military and other personnel to enter the Philippines without the need for a visa or permit. Many believe that the agreement enhances America’s overall strategy to maintain its presence and control over its interests, in the Asia Pacific Region.
In a 3 a.m. phone call Duterte made to Trump, the Philippine President formally informed the American President of the termination of the VFA.
In response, Trump told Duterte — in the limited Tagalog he learned during his last visit to the Philippines — “Eh di wow!” (Translation: “That’s awesome!”)