The Canadian Embassy in Manila assured that Canada is “strongly committed” to resolve with the Philippine government on finally disposing of the Canadian hazardous wastes rotting in the Philippine ports but fell short of saying they will return it back to Canada.
In a statement released to the media, the Embassy said a joint technical working group from both countries is now studying the “full spectrum of issues related to the withdrawal of the waste with a view to a timely resolution.”
President Rodrigo Duterte has threatened to declare war on Canada if the North American state will continue to resist to take back the garbage within the week. Around 2,500 tons of household waste from Ontario, Canada were imported to the Philippines but as misdeclared recyclable plastics in 2013 and 2014.
The Embassy said Canadian laws on hazardous wastes have been amended to “prevent such events from happening again”.
Canada is also a signatory to Basel Convention, an international law which regulates the movement of hazardous wastes. But it is not a signatory to the Basel ban amendment which requires developed countries to return illegally trafficked wastes back to them.
The Embassy’s carefully worded statement centered only on its commitment “to working collaboratively” with Manila to make sure the garbage is “processed in an environmentally responsible way.”
Without direct reference to the war threat of President Duterte, the Embassy noted that the Philippines and Canada are celebrating their 70 years of diplomatic relations this year.
“The relationship is built on strong people to people ties, our common interest in strengthening political, economic relations and in our mutual commitment to peace,” the Embassy said.
Relations soured between Ottawa and Manila after Canadian Prime Minister Justine Trudeau attacked Duterte on his drug war after the 2017 Asean summit in Manila.
Then last year, Trudeau ordered the review of the US$233-million helicopter deal between the Duterte administration and a Canadian company. Trudeau said he would only approve the purchase of 16 Bell 412EPI utility helicopters if there is a guarantee that they will not be used in military or police operations.
Canadian officials said the helicopter deal was sealed in 2012 and the choppers were initially intended for search and rescue operations.
Duterte cancelled the deal and lashed back at Trudeau for handing out conditions, saying he has the right to use the choppers against his own people who are trying to overthrow his government.
