Manila: Department of National Defense: Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. stated that China has no business telling the Philippines that advanced weaponry fired during the just-concluded "Balikatan" drills are a threat to peace and stability in the region. Teodoro emphasized that China should refrain from commenting on what the Philippines and its allies should and should not do with their lawful military exercises.

According to Philippines News Agency, Teodoro remarked during a media interview after the closing ceremonies at Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City, questioning China's concern over the drills and suggesting that China should focus on its internal affairs. Teodoro pointed out that China often meddles in external affairs while ignoring issues within its own borders, including the oppression of its people, and accused China of using such accusations as a distraction from its domestic problems.

The controversy arose after China claimed that the recent firing of the US Tomahawk land attack missile and Japanese Type 88 surface-to-ship missile systems posed a threat to regional peace and stability. The Tomahawk missile was launched from Tacloban and successfully reached its target in Laur, Fort Magsaysay, Nueva Ecija, early on May 5. The Type 88 anti-ship missile was used on May 6, resulting in the sinking of a decommissioned Philippine Navy corvette, BRP Quezon (PS-70), off Paoay, Ilocos Norte.

Teodoro countered China's claims by highlighting that what truly destabilizes the region are China's oppressive actions in the West Philippine Sea and other areas.