China's Foreign Ministry said on Tuesday that China will never stand idly by and wait for its security interests to be threatened, Reuters reported, BTA reported.
"The Philippines' cooperation with the United States, including the deployment of a US Typhoon missile system, poses a risk of geopolitical confrontation and an arms race in the region," said Beijing's spokeswoman Mao Ning at a regular press conference.
In addition, the Chinese Foreign Ministry urged the Philippines to adhere to strategic autonomy and peaceful development, Reuters added.
The US Typhoon system, which can be equipped with cruise missiles capable of strike Chinese targets, was deployed for joint exercises earlier this year. On Tuesday, Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro said its deployment for joint exercises was "legitimate, legal and beyond reproach".
Army Chief Roy Galido said on Monday that the Philippines also plans to acquire its own medium-range missile system.
Rivalry between China and the Philippines has grown in recent years over their competing claims in the South China Sea. Longtime treaty allies Manila and Washington have also deepened their military ties, further heightening tensions, Reuters recalls.
"By cooperating with the United States in launching "Typhoon", the Philippine side has handed over its own security and national defense to others," said a Chinese foreign ministry spokeswoman, speaking of "a significant threat to regional peace and security".
"Once again, we advise the Philippine side that the only correct choice to ensure its security is to adhere to strategic autonomy, good neighborliness and peaceful development," Mao added at a regular news conference.
China has territorial claims over almost the entire South China Sea, which is also claimed by several Southeast Asian countries, including the Philippines, Reuters recalls.