The bond between the Philippines and China is “improving every day,” President Duterte said in the face of concerns over the militarization of artificial islands built and occupied by the Chinese in the South China Sea. Duterte made the remarks during his meeting with Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee member Meng Xiangfeng at Malacañang last Tuesday. “During the meet and greet at Malacañan Palace, the President reiterated ‘our desire and wish of the Filipino people that we make our bond stronger,’ ” a Palace statement read. “He (Duterte) further noted that the bond is ‘improving every day.’ ”

Romero, A. (2018, January 11). Rody: Phl-China bond 'improving' daily. The Philippine Star, pp. 1, 2.