Is Rodrigo Duterte visiting UAE? Here’s what his office says

August 3, 2024

By Expat Media

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Is Rodrigo Duterte visiting UAE? Here’s what his office says

DUBAI – Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte’s much-anticipated visit to the UAE is unlikely to happen anytime soon, according to the Presidential Office. In a statement from the Office of the President on Tuesday (February 8), Duterte conveyed his “sincere regrets for being unable to proceed with the planned visit to the UAE to personally ensure that domestic measures to address Covid-19 remain robust in the face of emerging variants”. Duterte was widely anticipated to visit the UAE before Expo 2020 closes on March 31. Dubai is hosting the Expo 2020 where the Philippines has opened a pavilion and is an active participant. The Philippine leader, however, reiterated his wish to visit “a great country under a ruler known for his equanimity” when circumstances allow. Philippine delegates and officials at the Philippine Pavilion in Expo 2020 have prepared a day-long Philippine National Day celebration at Expo 2020 Dubai on Friday (February 11). The celebrations include a Philippine food fiesta at the Philippine pavilion from 10am to 10pm, a flag raising ceremony at noon, followed by a Philippine National Day parade at the Avenue of Nations 12:45pm. A Philippine National Day ceremony and cultural show will also be held at the Al Wasl Plaza starting at 4:15pm, a projection of the Philippine flag at the Al Wasl Plaza at 6:45pm, and a gala presentation at Jubilee Park starting at 7pm. Meanwhile, Expo 2020 organizers have arranged a concert for fans of Filipino rock star Bamboo, who will be taking the Jubilee Stage at 9:30pm. ICA/Expat Media ALSO READ: Moira Dela Torre, Bamboo to sing at Expo 2020 this February Duterte calls Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed: details