SONA 2020

Duterte apprehensive about return of foreign military bases in Philippines

President Rodrigo Duterte on Monday expressed apprehension at the thought of the Philippines hosting foreign troops once again amid escalating tensions between the United States and China.

In his fifth State of the Nation Address, Duterte said the US reportedly wants to reestablish a military base in Subic, Zambales. The Subic Naval Base closed in 1992 after the Philippine Senate voted against the extension of US military presence in the country.

“I have nothing against America. I have nothing against China,” he said.

Duterte then warned that hosting foreign military bases will "ensure" the extinction of Filipinos in case of a full-blown war.

“Kaya [kung] maglagay-lagay ka ng base at this time, this will ensure, if war breaks out, because there would be atomic arsenals brought in, this will ensure the extinction of the Filipino race,” he said.

The President maintained that the Philippines would continue its independent foreign policy.

The US and China have been locked in a trade conflict and sparred over several issues, including human rights and Beijing’s expansive claims in the South China Sea, a part of which is being claimed by the Philippines. — BM, GMA News