Duterte Allies' Iran War Threats Attack Philippines-US Ties

Supporters of former president Rodrigo Duterte have amplified claims that Iran could target the Philippines in retaliation for US actions in the Middle East

These rumors, which analysts say are being used to portray the country’s defense ties with Washington as a threat to national security, were debunked by the Armed Forces of the Philippines. The military assured the public that there are no credible direct threats to Philippine territory or Filipinos and foreign nationals in the country.

On social media, officials like Congressman Paolo Duterte suggested that US bases in the Philippines could make Filipino communities potential battlegrounds in global conflicts. This narrative is being used strategically to undermine the Philippines’ relationships with the US.