Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro rejected yesterday Chinese criticism of Manila’s plan to acquire a US-built mid-range missile system, telling Beijing to stop its “saber rattling” and “interference” in internal affairs.

Manila, Philippines - The Philippines and China are locked in an increasingly tense relationship, as Beijing's assertive actions in the South China Sea continue to escalate. These include ramming Filipino vessels and harassing fishing boats,

The Philippines' defence minister on Tuesday justified the country's deployment of a U.S. medium-range missile system and plans to acquire its own, despite opposition from China, a longstanding rival in the South China Sea.