President Rodrigo Duterte’s state visit to Israel is a very important diplomatic initiative and a good platform to build on for the future. Against the backdrop of volatile Middle East politics, the significance of the state visit lies in what an active Israeli-Filipino relationship can creatively develop and foster.

We hope that 24 hours after the President’s return to the Philippines, the nation and members of his entourage have had enough time to reflect on and digest what they have learned from this important journey.