Philippine President Duterte Tells China To Lay Off' Island In Disputed Waters

Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte. Photo: Reuters

Reuters: Philippines' Duterte tells China to 'lay off' island in disputed waters

MANILA (Reuters) - Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte told China on Thursday to “lay off” an island occupied by Manila in the disputed South China Sea and said he would deploy his soldiers there if Beijing touches it.

Duterte’s remarks, which he said was not a warning but rather a word of advice to a friend, follow a statement made by the foreign affairs ministry calling the presence of more than 200 Chinese fishing boats near Thitu island illegal.

“I will not plead or beg, but I am just telling you that lay off the Pagasa because I have soldiers there. If you touch it, that’s a different story. I will tell the soldiers ‘prepare for suicide mission’,” Duterte said in a speech, using the local name for Thitu.

Duterte has repeatedly said he would not go to war with China because it would be suicide.

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WNU Editor: The Chinese have a different view on where this dispute is going .... China, Philippines conclude fruitful dialogue on South China Sea issues (CGTN).

More News On Duterte Accusing Beijing Of Violating Philippine Sovereignty

Manila blasts China over ‘swarming’ flotilla -- AP
Manila accuses Beijing of violating its sovereignty as South China Sea dispute rages on -- SCMP
Philippines calls Chinese ships 'illegal' near disputed island -- AFP
China’s Fishing Militia Swarms Philippine Island, Seeking Edge in Sea Dispute -- The Wall Street Journal
Manila Blasts Beijing for Violating Sovereignty in South China Sea Waters -- Sputnik