Duterte orders AFP to stop $233-M chopper deal with Canada

President Rodrigo Duterte on Friday ordered the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to terminate its $233-million helicopter deal with Canada.

Duterte made the move after the North American country raised concerns that the aircraft would be used to fight rebels.

"I want to tell the Armed Forces to cut the deal. Huwag na ituloy and somehow we will look for another supplier. We respect the stand of Canada," Duterte said at a press briefing in Davao City.

"Do not buy anymore from Canada or from the United States because there is always a condition attached," he added.

"So if we cannot use it against the terrorists or Filipino citizens, then prepare for the eventual collapse of this country," Duterte said.

Malacañang on Thursday said that the 16 helicopters that the AFP would buy from Canada would not be used to attack communist rebels but to transport wounded soldiers or bodies of casualties.

Roque said the helicopters were also intended for transportation of supplies and personnel and other forms of humanitarian assistance and disaster response.

The Bell 412EPI helicopters were due to be delivered early next year. —NB, GMA News