No one can deny Philippines of its right in the South Chin President Duterte

Manila: The Philippine President, Rodrigo Duterte announced, ‘The Philippines has the rights over the West Sea, currently under the Chinese control. There is no compromise possible on the mater. The guided missiles deployed on the artificial islands built by China in the region can hit the Philippines in seven to ten minutes. Even so, no one can deny the Philippines of its rights over the marine region. Also, the Philippines will confront China in this regard, at the right time.’

Over the last few days, President Duterte has made some significant statements on China’s claim over the right to the South China Sea. President Duterte emphasised that China had the South China Sea, but only the Philippines held the rights over the West Philippines Sea. Furthermore, Duterte said that any objections to the claim, would not be entertained.

However, President Duterte also pointed out the Chinese threat while delivering his Presidential address in the Philippines Parliament. Duterte said, ‘Although the Philippines has the rights over the ‘West Philippines Sea’, China has taken control of the marine region and the islands here. Additionally, China has deployed guided missiles on the islands.’

Duterte said, ‘The Philippines military cannot withstand the power of the guided missiles. I am sure that even if the Philippines sent a unit of marines to take over the islands, not one would survive it. Nevertheless, we are not willing to compromise on the issue.’ At this time, President Duterte clarified his stance, saying, ‘The Philippines will decide to take to arms against China, at the apt time.’

A few days ago, a senior US official had appealed to the Philippines to initiate conflict against China. The official had said that the United States would support the Philippines in the battle against Beijing, over the South China Sea. President Duterte’s statements came in response to the US official’s appeal.

Only a few days ago, President Duterte had even appealed to the United States to deploy its Seventh Fleet in the South China Sea. Moreover, Duterte had announced that if the United States sparked a conflict with China, the Philippines would certainly support it.