President of the Philippines, Rodrigo Duterte, has said his country is pursuing an independent foreign policy aimed at weaning the Philippines off dependence on long-time ally the United States. Duterte called for new global leadership, saying his country would join if China and Russia created a new world order. Duterte comments come prior to his departure for the APEC economic leaders' meeting in Peru.

Talking to Chinese President Xi Jinping on the sidelines of APEC, Duterte said the Philippines is willing to be friends with "brotherly" China forever. Both countries pledged to promote bilateral ties and cooperation. Duterte also said the Philippines is willing to properly address maritime issues with China through dialogue and consultation.