TOKYO — President Rodrigo Duterte Tuesday met with Japanese Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko and thanked them for visiting the Philippines last year. It was the third attempt to set a meeting between Duterte and the imperial couple. Incoming presidential spokesman Harry Roque said information about the meetings with the royal couple is not usually released. Duterte previously said he was eager to convey his deep respect and admiration for the imperial couple. Hours before the audience with the royal couple, Duterte met with the descendants of the late former Japanese Prime Minister Takeo Fukuda.

Source: Philippine Star October 31, 2017 12:32 UTC