The Philippines’ ambassador to the United United States announced that if the United States goes to war with Russia, President Rodrigo Duterte will open the country’s doors to American troops.
If American forces were involved in the conflict with Russia, Duterte would honor the 1951 Mutual Defense Treaty, according to Ambassador Jose Manuel Romualdez.
“He says if they’re asking for the support of the Philippines he was very clear that if push comes to shove the Philippines will be ready to be part of the effort especially if this Ukrainian crisis spills over to the Asian region,” Romualdez said. “He offered that the Philippines will be ready to open its doors, especially to our ally the US in using our facilities, any facilities they may need.”
Along with 140 other countries, the Philippines criticized Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Despite the president’s efforts to improve relations with Russia during his six-year rule, Romualdez claimed Duterte reminded him that Russia’s war with Ukraine was wrong.
“Give them the assurance that if ever needed, the Philippines is ready to offer whatever facilities or whatever things that the United States will need being a major – our number one ally,” Romauldez said.
The treaty with the U.S. and the Philippines says that in the event of an armed attack on the metropolitan territory of either of the countries, “or on the island territories under its jurisdiction in the Pacific or on its armed forces, public vessels or aircraft in the Pacific,” the countries commit to coming to the aid of the other.
Romualdez said the Philippines is among the Association of Southeast Asian countries who will be meeting with the White House and U.S. national security officials this week to discuss the American economic sanctions on Russia, including America’s ban on Russian oil.
