President Duterte said the Philippines will stay neutral amid the growing tension between China and Taiwan, noting that the country cannot afford to go to war against the Asian giant.
Duterte made the statement after he announced that the country's soldiers and police play a bigger role in delivering the government's assistance to the victims of typhoon "Odette" in Visayas and Mindanao.
In a command conference in Lapu-Lapu City this week, the President said it was a good thing that there is no tension in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) as this has allowed the soldiers to assist in the government's typhoon response efforts.
But even if there would be tension in the disputed waters, Duterte reiterated that he will not go to war against China since the Philippines will stand no chance against the Asian superpower.
"I would never allow that for as long as I sit President. Hindi na tayo magsali diyan sa (We will not take part in that)... How can we match the firepower of China?" he asked.
"They (Philippine police and military) are not geared for war. Bakit ako sasali diyan na makita mo naman kung (Why would take part in that when you can see) what’s happening?" he added.
Duterte was referring to the escalating tensions between Taipei and Beijing. China insists that the democratically-ruled Taiwan is part of its territory. China has stepped up military activities near the island, causing the tension.
According to the President, one miscalculation would start a war in the region. He said the Philippines will stay neutral in case that happens.
"Itong issue ng Taiwan (Regarding the issue with Taiwan). If it goes south, one simple mistake, miscalculation diyan (there)... ‘yung mga missiles nila ulanin ‘yung Taiwan (if they send their missiles to Taiwan), then there is really war," he said.
"I said that minuscule lang tayo diyan sa power play nila (We are minuscule in their power play). It does not concern us," he added.
"It does not give us any reason to rise up in arms against China. That would be the most foolish thing that can ever happen there. We stay neutral. Bahala sila (They're on their own)," he continued.
The Philippines and China have overlapping claims over portions of the South China Sea, where the WPS is located. The Hague Ruling of 2016 favored the Philippines but China continues to reject the decision of the Permanent Court of Arbitration. (Argyll Cyrus B. Geducos)