Actor Steven Seagal pays courtesy call on Pres. Duterte

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte does his signature pose with actor Steven Seagal who met with the President in Malacañan Palace on October 12, 2017. (Photo by King Rodriguez/Presidential Photo)

MANILA — President Rodrigo Duterte on Thursday, October 12, received Hollywood action star Steven Seagal in a courtesy call in Malacañan after the actor arrived in the Philippines reportedly to scout a location for his new movie.

Seagal, 65, was accompanied by former Ilocos Sur Gov. Luis “Chavit” Singson during his meeting with the President. Seagal’s new movie is about illegal drugs and other crimes.

Telling Seagal that movies are a reflection of life, President Duterte reiterated his strong stance against illegal drugs because it enslaves people to a form of synthetic chemical. He also told the American actor that he used to have karate lessons.

Drug trade and production devastated many societies in Latin America, particularly Mexico, and the President said he does not want the Philippines to suffer the same fate.

Prior to meeting Steven Seagal, President Duterte received artist Freddie Luna Cruz. Cruz, the great grandson of national artist Juan Luna, presented a portrait of the President, which he painted last year when the Chief Executive assumed office. Cruz was accompanied by Presidential Consultant for Education Jose David Lapuz. (PND)