The Philippines Offers to Return U.S.-Built Missile System in Exchange for China’s End of Aggression in Philippine Waters

The Chinese government has repeatedly criticized the Philippines for hosting the U.S.-built Typhon missile system, a mobile launcher that can be used against land, air, and naval targets. In response, Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. issued an offer on Thursday: if China stops its aggression in Philippine waters, Manila will send back the missile system.

President Marcos stated, “Let’s make a deal with China: stop claiming our territory, stop harassing our fishermen, and let them have a living, stop ramming our boats, stop water cannoning our people, stop firing lasers at us, and stop your aggressive and coercive behavior, and I’ll return the Typhon missiles.” He emphasized the disproportionate power of China’s missile systems compared to what the Philippines possesses.

China’s territorial claims in the South China Sea, which overlap with the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone (EEZ), have led to confrontations between the two countries. The China Coast Guard has employed physical tactics to impede Philippine vessels, including shouldering, water-cannoning, aggressive maneuvering, and even opposed boarding. Despite these provocations, Manila has refrained from responding with force.

The Typhon missile system is a mobile launcher designed for SM-6 and Tomahawk missiles, capable of striking naval and land-based targets at long ranges. With the ability to reach mainland China from northern Luzon, the Typhon system could serve as a deterrent in the South China Sea. However, China maintains a significant advantage with its vast ballistic missile force, strategic airbases, and the world’s largest navy and coast guard.

Recent Philippine Coast Guard Actions

Recent incidents have highlighted the tensions in Philippine waters. The Philippine Coast Guard vessel, BRP Teresa Magbanua, successfully pushed back a Chinese Coast Guard vessel, CCG-3304, further away from Zambales. This achievement underscores the ongoing maritime disputes and the Philippines’ efforts to protect its territorial integrity.