26th December 2024 – (Beijing) China has reiterated its demand for the Philippines to withdraw the U.S. Typhon missile system, warning that its deployment could escalate geopolitical tensions and trigger an arms race in the region. This statement was made by Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning during a press briefing on Thursday, following remarks from Philippine Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro, who defended the missile system’s deployment as a sovereign decision.
Teodoro emphasised that decisions regarding the Philippines’ security and defence fall within the country’s own jurisdiction and should not be subject to external influence. In response, Mao argued that the Typhon missile system, which possesses both nuclear and conventional capabilities, represents a strategic offensive threat rather than a defensive measure.
Mao expressed concern that the Philippines’ collaboration with the U.S. in deploying the system compromises its national sovereignty and increases the risk of regional instability. “The Philippines is effectively ceding its security and national defence to foreign powers, which poses a significant threat to regional peace,” she stated.
The spokesperson questioned the motivations behind the Philippines’ actions, suggesting that they undermine the country’s stated commitment to neutrality among global powers and its intention to avoid escalating tensions with China. She characterised the situation as a “harm set, harm get” scenario, implying that such military deployments could lead to detrimental consequences for the Philippines.
While the Philippine government previously indicated the Typhon system would be used only for a routine exercise, it has since signalled a desire for permanent deployment and potential procurement of the system. Mao labelled this change of stance as “blatant dishonesty.”
Mao cautioned that regional countries are aware of who is stirring conflict in the South China Sea and who is collaborating with external forces to project military power. She reiterated that the appropriate path to ensuring national security lies in pursuing strategic independence and fostering peaceful development.
In closing, Mao urged the Philippines to fulfil its earlier commitments and withdraw the missile system promptly, warning that failure to do so could jeopardise its own interests. “If the Philippines insists on its current course of action, it will end up shooting itself in the foot,” she warned.