Philippines Offers to Remove US Missile System if China Halts Aggressive Actions in South China Sea

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. proposes returning the US Typhon missile system in exchange for an end to China's coercive behavior and territorial claims.

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has offered to remove the US-deployed Typhon missile system if China ceases aggressive actions in the South China Sea, including harassment of Filipino fishermen and territorial claims.
The US Typhon mid-range missile system was deployed in the Philippines in April 2024 for joint military exercises and remains in use for training purposes, with plans for the Philippines to acquire its own system.
China has repeatedly demanded the removal of the missile system, labeling it a provocation and accusing the Philippines of inciting geopolitical confrontation and an arms race in the region.
Marcos criticized China's stance, pointing out that China's missile arsenal is far more powerful and suggesting a deal to resolve tensions by addressing China's actions in disputed waters.
The South China Sea remains a flashpoint, with recent clashes between Chinese and Philippine vessels escalating tensions and raising concerns about broader regional security risks.