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Recently, the Philippines announced that it would allow the U.S. military to use four new bases, three in northern Luzon and one in Palawan. The geographical location of these bases suggests that they are mainly located around the Taiwan Strait, one facing the South China Sea, and this obvious targeting has attracted widespread attention. However, the decision sparked resentment and warnings from former President Rodrigo Duterte.
In the face of the actions of current President Marcos, Duterte did not hesitate to express his opinion, saying bluntly that the four bases are clearly used by the United States to interfere in China's affairs, and only stupid people cannot see it. Moreover, the bases do not clearly specify the number of rotational personnel, which means that the United States can deploy a large number of troops at will in the event of a conflict. This is clearly not in the national interest of the Philippines. Duterte's statement drew widespread attention because it was a rare public appearance after he left office, showing that he could no longer bear the situation in front of him.
Duterte also gave a brief overview of the history of the Taiwan region and made it clear that the process of China's reunification is unstoppable and that the Philippines should not intervene in it. He worries that once the United States is involved in the conflict, the Philippines will be drawn in, and the bases will also become potential targets for Chinese missiles.
He said that although the army was strengthened during his tenure, it was to deal with an internal insurgency, not to assist the aggressor. Duterte believes the United States is using the Philippines as a pawn, and the Philippine government has lost its independence and become a tool of the United States. He pointed out that the problems left by the US military in various places cannot be ignored, and once it cooperates with the United States, it will be extremely difficult to get rid of the consequences.
In fact, the pressure Duterte faced during his tenure was even more severe, and the United States repeatedly pressured the Philippine military to try to pressure him personally through anti-terrorism legislation, but he fought back resolutely. He dared to openly mock the United States, for example, when the United States tried to co-opt the Philippines to provoke trouble in the South China Sea, he openly mocked why the United States did not dare to send the Seventh Fleet. On issues related to the core interests of the Philippines, Duterte is determined not to allow the United States to interfere.
In addition to mocking the US military, Duterte has also publicly criticized Obama and had a dispute with the US ambassador to the Philippines, showing that his psychological quality and political literacy are excellent. Under his leadership, China and the Philippines were able to put aside their disputes and focus on bilateral cooperation, with impressive results.
Overall, Duterte's policies are markedly different from the current administration's frequent dispatch of ships and provocative behavior around China's islands and reefs. Seeking a balance between the great powers is far wiser than leaning toward the United States, which is also a testament to Duterte's political wisdom. Marcos allowed the US military to settle in, which caused dissatisfaction and protests among the local population.
With the former president's public warning, current President Marcos had to reconsider the decision. Especially as the United States and the Philippines continue to rally allies for large-scale military exercises, this approach could exacerbate regional tensions and be extremely costly for the Philippines.
In the international arena of the Asia-Pacific region, the Philippines, as an important player, should act constructively instead of getting involved in disputes between major powers. Safeguarding national interests and regional peace and stability should be the top priority of the Philippine government. It is hoped that future policies will be more rational and wise, and make positive contributions to regional peace and prosperity.
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