Philippine National Security Adviser Secretary Eduardo Año confirmed that the Philippine government has no immediate plans to withdraw the American Typhoon mid-range missile system that is currently stationed in northern Luzon. The decision on its potential removal will be made in consultation with the U.S. under the Mutual Defense Board-Security Engagement Board (MDB-SEB). Año emphasized that the system is important for the country’s defense training and future military capability. In response to China’s concerns, he reaffirmed that the Philippines will not be dictated by foreign powers and will act according to its own national interests, particularly in relation to its defense agreements with the U.S.

1. No Immediate Withdrawal: The Philippines does not plan to withdraw the Typhon missile system from northern Luzon.
2. Ongoing Deployment: There is no set timeline for how long the missile system will remain in the country.
3. Consultation Process: Any decision regarding the missile system’s future will go through the Mutual Defense Board-Security Engagement Board (MDB-SEB), involving both the Philippines and the United States.
4. Training and Upgrading: The system is essential for training and upgrading the capabilities of the Philippine Armed Forces.
5. Philippine Sovereignty: Año stressed that the Philippines will not be dictated by China or any other nation regarding its defense decisions.
6. U.S.-Philippines Defense Partnership: The Philippines will fulfill its role as a partner in defense with the United States, as per their agreements.
7. China’s Concerns: China had expressed concern and called for the withdrawal of the missile system, which the Philippines rejected.
8.  Joint Exercises: The Typhon missile system was used during joint military exercises between the Philippines and the U.S. in April 2023.