Builder behind Trump Tower Manila appointed special trade envoy from Philippines to U.S.

President Barack Obama and Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte haven't exactly had the friendliest of relationships lately. Duterte, though, is hoping to get off on the right foot with the future President Donald Trump, and he plans to do so by appointing Jose E.B. Antonio as trade envoy to the U.S.

Antonio is no stranger to the Trump family; in fact, he is the real estate magnate behind Trump Tower Manila. Trump doesn't own the building — he has just licensed the Trump brand — but the president-elect and his family members have praised the venture in a promotional video. Ivanka Trump called Trump Tower Manila "flawless," Eric Trump deemed it "sexy," and the president-elect said, "It's really great working with Century Properties and the Antonio family. True professionals, they really know what they're doing. Trump Tower Manila is going to be something special."

Benjamin Muego, a professor at Manila's De La Salle University, told NPR that Antonio's appointment was impressive, and the benefits outweigh any potential conflicts of interest. "If you're looking for somebody to try to smooth over strained relations, then who better to serve as a conduit than someone who's known to both and enjoys their trust?" he said.