MANILA, Philippines – President Rodrigo Duterte on Friday ordered the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to cancel the USD233-million helicopter deal with Canada.

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In a press briefing in Davao City, Duterte announced the cancellation of the deal, he stated, “I want to tell the Armed Forces to cut the deal. Huwag na ituloy (Do not continue) and somehow we will look for another supplier. We respect the stand of Canada.” In addition, Duterte said that not to buy anymore from Canada or from the United States because there is always a condition attached.

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The announcement was made after reports that the Canadian government wanted to review the contract after supposedly learning that the aircraft would be used for attacks.

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AFP Deputy Chief-of-Staff for Plans, Major Gen. Restituto Padilla stated that the 16 aircraft would be use to transport wounded soldiers or bodies of casualties, “Its intended use as combat utility helicopter is for the transport of troops, especially combat casualties and for troop sustainment.”

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It was December 2017 when the Department of National Defense (DND) signed the contract of the purchase of 16 Bell 412EPI helicopters.