EDITORIAL- What “win-win” cooperation?

During his speech before the Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Inc. last Wednesday, President Rodrigo Duterte said he will continue our “win-win” relations with China.

“As we approach the 50th Anniversary of Philippines-China ties, (our) win-win cooperation will ensure that our relations remain a partnership for greater peace, progress and prosperity," the president said in a recorded video message.

In case some people don’t know what a “win-win” situation is, it is one where both parties of a deal end up benefiting from the transaction, or when both parties come out as winners in a scenario.

And in case some people still don’t notice, we are not in an advantageous position or situation where many of our dealings with China are concerned. So what “win-win” cooperation is the president talking about?

Loans with exorbitant rates that may ultimately force us to give up some of our infrastructure? Construction projects that hire only Chinese workers? Businesses that cater only to Chinese clientele?

With regards to our issue with the West Philippine Sea, the hope of a “win-win” cooperation is even more remote. China now holds most if not all the cards after building structures that can support military actions in that area. It is not likely to stop doing so anytime soon, in fact it appears to be strengthening its position.

Anyone negotiating from such a position of power and advantage is sure to be the winner. Guess what’s in store for the other party?

If anything, it seems that China is getting more than we are in our dealings with them. What makes it even sadder is that our president doesn’t realize the situation we are in, or just doesn’t want to do something about it.

This is not a dig at the Chinese people in general. It is their foreign and economic policies that we take issue with.

Like we said in an editorial a few days ago, our friendship with the Chinese people in general has benefited us, but it is the dealings between their government and ours that we should be wary of.