Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte is leading a big delegation to China this week. Even before he embarked on his first trip outside of Southeast Asia as president, Duterte sent many positive signals that have raised hopes the new Philippine leader can repair his country's ties with China, which were strained under the previous government led by Benigno Aquino III.

In his interviews with Chinese media ahead of his Beijing trip, Duterte expressed his desire to improve ties with China and strengthen cooperation with China in a wide range of fields. He also said the just concluded joint military drills between his country and the United States in the South China Sea will be the last while he is in office.

Such words and gestures can help turn a new page in relationship between Beijing and Manila and ratchet down tensions in the disputed waters, which will in turn contribute to peace and stability in the region.