An outdated Soviet-era anti-submarine destroyer of the Russian Navy and a fleet tanker docked in Manila Jan. 3 on the first goodwill visit of any Russian warship to the Philippines since Feb. 2, 2012.

The Udaloy I-class anti-submarine destroyer RFS Admiral Tributs (564) laid down in 1980 by the Soviet Navy, and the Boris Chilikin-class replenishment oiler Boris Botuma, are in Manila on the invitation of the Philippines pro-communist and anti-American president Rodrigo Duterte.

Like Us on Facebook

Both ships are part of the Russian Navy's Pacific Fleet based in Vladivostok. This is the Boris Botuma's second visit to the Philippines. It was part of a three-ship squadron that came to Manila in 2012.

Duterte, who has confessed to murdering at least three criminal suspects, has also expressed a personal fondness for Chinese dictator Xi Jinping and Russian dictator Vladimir Putin. Duterte has lovingly called Putin his "idol."

The two Russian warships will depart Jan. 7. Both warships have brought with them a sampling of Russian small arms Russia plans to sell to the gullible Philippine president.

Rear Admiral Eduard Mikhailov, deputy commander of Russia's Pacific Fleet, said a wide range of equipment will be demonstrated to the Philippine military during the five-day visit.

"You can choose ... to cooperate with United State of America or to cooperate with Russia, but from our side we can help you in every way that you need," said Admiral Mikhailov.

"Our governments will maybe discuss in some period of time the possibilities of our maritime exercises."

The warships will be opened to the public while Russian sailors will tour historical sites in Manila.

The last Russian Navy call to the Philippines took place on Feb. 2, 2012 with the visit of another Udaloy I-class anti-submarine destroyer, the RFS Admiral Panteleyev (548), accompanied by the Boris Botuma and the rescue tug Fotiy Krylov.

TagsRussian Navy, Manila, Philippines, RFS Admiral Tributs, Boris Botuma, Rodrigo Duterte, Pacific fleet, Xi Jinping, Vladimir Putin, Rear Admiral Eduard Mikhailov