President Duterte yesterday expressed hope that he can go to the West Philippine Sea after stepping down from office, citing the need to assert “what is ours,” even as he reiterated that the Philippines cannot afford to fight with China over the maritime row. Speaking during the commissioning of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) ship BRP Melchora Aquino in Manila, Duterte said his desire to go to West Philippine Sea would not have any ramifications if he does so as a civilian. “Someday, I could maybe ride with the Coast Guard to see. Even if I am already a civilian ... that you can invite me to ride with you... And I could maybe ride with you there in West Philippine Sea. It is a gamble,” he said.

Rody wants to visit WPS as civilian. (2022, June 13). The Philippine Star, pp. 1-2.