Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, April 20) — International law expert Harry Roque on Thursday said it is most likely that the Philippines will be involved in a possible war between the United States and China, with the sites for Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) serving as valid targets for Beijing.
“When the Americans use our bases as a launching pad to attack China, then our bases become valid military objectives. The Chinese can fire upon our bases,” Roque told CNN Philippines’ The Source.
He also said that it’s a principle in international law \”that a country that allows its territory to be used in a manner injurious to another must be responsible.\”
Malacañang revealed early this month the four new EDCA sites, namely the Naval Base Camilo Osias in Santa Ana town, Cagayan; the Lal-lo Airport in Lal-lo town, Cagayan; the Camp Melchor Dela Cruz in Gamu town, Isabela; and the Balabac Island in Palawan.
Department of National Defense spokesperson Arsenio Andolong has clarified the latest agreement was not directed at any country nor was it meant to meddle in China’s and Taiwan’s affairs. This was after Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Huang Xilian claimed that the US will only take advantage of the new EDCA sites to “interfere” in the tensions in Taiwan Strait.
The tension between Washington and Beijing was recently fueled by the meeting of Taiwan’s President Tsai Ing-wen and House Speaker Kevin McCarthy in the US.
China then launched military drills around Taiwan, which the former considers part of its territory.
Roque said based on the discussion during his meetings with Chinese leaders and Filipino journalists in Beijing, a shooting war between two superpowers is possible.
The Philippines is not obliged to take sides, but given the establishment of EDCA sites in the country, these locations can be military targets for China, Roque noted.
He also said Manila should review EDCA to reflect the developments in the conflict between US and China.
