Confirmed by the White House: Obama called Duterte to congratulate him

No ties are going to be severed.

The White House confirmed that United States President Barack Obama personally congratulated incoming President Rodrigo Duterte through a phone call, which is the first conversation between the two.

In a statement released on Tue, May 17, the White House disclosed, “President Obama noted that the successful election and record voter participation were emblematic of the Philippines’ vibrant democracy.

“The White House added that Obama highlighted the enduring values between the Philippines and the US that hold its alliance such as their shared commitments to democracy, human rights, rule of law and inclusive economic growth,” reports Patricia Lourdes Viray on Philstar.com.

The White House added, “The two leaders affirmed their interest in seeing the relationship continue to grow on the basis of these shared principles.”