Philippines Could Go to War Over S China Sea - Duterte's Security Advisor

Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte said that his country could go to war if its soldiers were hurt in the disputed South China Sea, according to National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon.

Rodrigo Duterte stated that the death of his country's soldiers could become a red line for him amid the dispute over the South China Sea, according to Hermogenes Esperon.

"Or, if our people are hurt there at Pag-asa Island. We are not saying we are going to war, but if they oppress us that may force our hand, because we will not allow ourselves to be oppressed," he added as quoted by the Daily Mail.

Earlier this month, White House announced that the United States had spoken directly to China about continued militarization in the South China Sea, promising short- and long-term consequences.

READ MORE: Duterte Gains Control of All Branches of Philippine Gov't After Firing Top Judge

In May, the US decided to cancel its invitation to China to participate in the maritime 2018 Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) drills because of the South China Sea's "militarization," after several Chinese Air Force bombers landed on islands and reefs in the area.

In 2016, an international tribunal in The Hague ruled that Beijing's claims to sovereignty over South China Sea waters had no legal basis. China denied the court ruling and argued that the tribunal had no jurisdiction in the case.