Despite his aversion against traveling, President Rodrigo Roa Duterte says he has no choice but leave the country for South Korea next week for the Asean-Republic of Korea Commemorative Summit in Busan, South Korea.

Duterte disclosed that for his trip to Korea, he will be riding a small plane to at least save government some money.

His trip to Korea, the President disclosed, is important as he intends to initiate side talks with South Korean officials on the possibility of buying more fighter planes, especially corvettes.

Duterte also disclosed that the summit is the appropriate venue for the Philippines to articulate its position on the West Philippine sea and the on-going negotiations for peace between the North and the South.

The Philippine president says it is vital for the Philippines to talk with South Korea to fortify a possible security alliance composed of Japan, the Western powers, South Korea, Australia and other Pacific powers against China’s continuing occupation of the Spratlys.

Duterte’s trip follows the conclusion of talks on security between Philippine defense secretary Lorenzana and US Defense secretary Mark Esper in Manila.