NSA to China: Phl has right to defend itself

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

- By MICHAEL PUNONGBAYAN and PIA LEE-BRAGO

"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 Typhoon missile launcher, is a step toward strengthening our deterrence capabilities and ensuring that we are prepared to defend our territory when required," he added.