He was referring to Ambassador Zhao Jianhua’s receiving the Order of Sikatuna with the rank of Datu from Malacañang and the Congressional Medal of Achievement from lawmakers. In awarding Zhao a Medal of Achievement, the House of Representatives cited his role in “fostering stronger bonds of very good friendship between the Philippines and China,” Carpio said. “Of course, the House of Representatives was just following President Duterte, who earlier conferred on Ambassador Zhao the Order of Sikatuna with the Rank of Datu,” Carpio pointed out. In short, we used the Rule of Law in the grand manner in defense of our nation’s sovereign rights,” Carpio told his audience of lawyers. The Order of Sikatuna is given to diplomats, officials and foreign nationals who have rendered exceptional services to the Philippines.

Source: Philippine Star November 09, 2019 17:16 UTC