Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro rejected yesterday Chinese criticism of Manila’s plan to acquire a US-built mid-range missile system, telling Beijing to stop its “saber rattling” and “interference” in internal affairs.

Manila, Philippines - The Philippines and China are locked in an increasingly tense relationship, as Beijing's assertive actions in the South China Sea continue to escalate. These include ramming Filipino vessels and harassing fishing boats,

The Philippines said Monday it planned to acquire the US Typhon missile system as part of a push to secure its maritime interests, sparking warnings from China of a regional “arms race”. The US Army deployed the mid-range missile system in the northern Philippines earlier this year for annual joint military exercises with its longtime ally,