Drilon joined PNoy in Korea to say 'thank you'

MANILA, Philippines - Senate President Franklin Drilon also went to South Korea to personally thank the government there for funding projects in his home province, a Palace official said Friday.

Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Abigail Valte said Drilon was one of the main proponents of the Jalaur river multipurpose project in Iloilo, which was also funded by the South Korean government.

The Palace official said the project involved the construction of three dams and the upgrading of five irrigation systems that would benefit 24,000 farmers, two cities and 23 municipalities in Iloilo.

"We've made good headway in this particular project and as a sign of appreciation, Senator Drilon became part of the delegation to convey of the appreciation for the help that was extended," Valte explained in a press briefing.

Aquino is now on the last day of his state visit in South Korea where he discussed several issues with President Park Geun-hye and spoke before the business community to attract foreign investment.

Both nations also signed three memorandums of understanding in defense, sports cooperation, and an $80.4-million loan to mitigate the effects of floods in Pampanga.

Read: Phl, South Korea ink loan, defense pacts

Aside from Drilon, Aquino was also joined by some members of his Cabinet, including including Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert Del Rosario, Finance Secretary Cesar Purisima and Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin.

Aquino's two-day trip to South Korea costs P12 million.