US missile system to stay in Philippines amid China's concerns

U.S. and Philippine officials have decided to keep a U.S. mid-range missile system in the northern Philippines indefinitely. This move aims to enhance deterrence amid concerns raised by China, which has warned that the deployment could destabilize the region. The Typhon missile system, capable of targeting areas up to 1,800 kilometers away, was initially set to be removed by the end of September. However, discussions are ongoing about its presence until at least April 2025, coinciding with annual military exercises. Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro dismissed China's concerns as interference in the Philippines' internal affairs. He emphasized the need for the Philippines to strengthen its defense capabilities in light of China's assertive actions in the South China Sea.