NSC backs BBM position on Typhon missile pullout

The National Security Council (NSC) has expressed support for President Marcos' setting as condition for the pullout of US Typhoon launchers China's withdrawal of its claims over Philippine territorial waters.

- By MICHAEL PUNONGBAYAN

In a statement, National Security Adviser Eduardo Año said the NSC fully supports "the President's call to the People's Republic of China to respect Philippine sovereign rights and jurisdiction and stop aggressive and coercive behavior in the West Philippine Sea."

"We have always pursued peaceful and diplomatic measures consistent with our desire to de-escalate rising tensions in the West Philippine Sea," Año said.

"Our actions in the West Philippine Sea remain compliant with international law and established norms of cooperation and diplomacy," he pointed out.

"We see this as contributory to peace and stability in the region, which will benefit not only the Philippines but the entire region," he added.

He also stressed that the Typhoon missile system in the country which is being protested by China is solely for defense purposes and not directed at any nation.

He said the same missile system was deployed in the Philippines during the 2024 Balikatan exercises with the US to improve readiness and interoperability with the armed forces of partner countries, particularly the United States.