The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) welcomed reports that the United States Indo-Pacific Command (US INDOPACOM) will send an additional Mid-Range Capability (MRC) Typhon missile to the country.
According to AFP spokesperson Col. Francel Margareth Padilla, this development is a positive step for the Philippine military, adding that “mas marami, mas masaya” (the more, the merrier) as it will enhance troop training.
Similarly, Army spokesperson Colonel Louie Dema-ala stated that this is also a welcome move for the Philippine Army, as it will expedite their personnel’s training.
The first US Typhon missile arrived in the Philippines in April 2024 as part of the joint Salaknib and Balikatan exercises.
Since then, the missile system has remained in the country and is currently stationed in Ilocos Norte.
China’s government has strongly condemned the presence of the Typhon missile launcher, repeatedly urging the Philippines to remove the system, arguing that it escalates regional tensions.
Beijing has also accused Manila of breaking its commitment to remove the missile system after the military exercises.
However, the AFP has maintained that the Typhon missile system will continue to be used for training, while President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has stated that the missiles will only be returned to the US once China halts its claims in the West Philippine Sea and ceases harassment of Philippine vessels.