NSA to China: Philippine has right to defend itself

MANILA, Philippines — National Security Adviser (NSA) Eduardo Año yesterday rejected China’s claims that the Philippine Army’s decision to acquire the Typhon mid-range missile system from the United States may trigger an arms race and cause more trouble in the region.

“As a sovereign nation, the Philippines has the right to determine the most appropriate measures to safeguard its security and the well-being of its people,” Año said in a statement.

“Just like any other nation, the procurement of defense systems, including the Typhon missile launcher, is a step toward strengthening our deterrence capabilities and ensuring that we are prepared to defend our territory when required,” he added.

The Philippines plans to acquire the US Typhon, also known as the strategic mid-range fires system or SMRF, that can launch Tomahawk cruise missiles capable of hitting targets up to 2,000 kilometers away. It is crucial for coastal defense and protecting the country’s sovereignty against foreign threats. 

The NSA stressed that the Philippines remains steadfast in its commitment to an independent foreign policy, grounded in the principles of sovereignty and the protection of the country’s national interests.

Without specifically mentioning China, he said that “recent comments suggesting that our efforts to enhance our defense and deterrence capabilities – specifically the deployment of the Typhon missile system – are part of a broader arms race or pose a threat to the region or any country are unfounded and are pure speculation.”

He added that it is important to emphasize that these weapon systems are meant to bolster the country’s defensive posture in line with continued modernization of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

“In its long history as a sovereign nation, the Philippines has never provoked conflict, but we are always vigilant in defending our sovereignty against any potential threats,” Año said.

“Our actions are meant to ensure peace and stability in the region, and we will never undermine the security of any nation,” he added.

The NSA thus called on “all parties to respect the Philippines’ sovereign right to make decisions regarding its defense and security.”

“We remain committed to maintaining an environment of peace, cooperation and mutual respect in the region,” Año said. — Mark Ernest Villeza