TOKYO, Japan (The Adobo Chronicles, Tokyo Bureau) – Congratulations and well wishes have been pouring in from world leaders for Japan’s new prime minister  but nothing like the virtual greeting that Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte sent over to Yoshihide Suga.

The 5-minute zoom call between the two leaders ended with Duterte flashing his trademark fist bump. Suga was thrilled to return the gesture.

And so began Duterte’s Philippine opponents’ outpouring of criticism against the popular head of state. “Duterte, tuta ng Japan,” they cried. (Duterte, puppet of Japan).

DDS (Duterte Die-hard Supporters) countered with their own messages to the Opposition: “Eat your heart out!”