Philippines says China’s South China Sea activities a matter of concern

August 22, 2025 - 4:10 PM
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Philippine Defense Minister Gilberto Teodoro speaks during a joint press briefing with his Australian counterpart Richard Marles, in Makati City, Metro Manila, Philippines, August 22, 2025. (Reuters/Eloisa Lopez)

 The activities of China in the South China Sea are a matter of concern, Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro said on Friday.

He said the Philippines was unable to control China’s unilateral activities in the region, and so there was a need for deterrence.

He was speaking at a press briefing with his Australian counterpart Richard Marles.

—Reporting by Mikhail Flores; Writing by David Stanway; Editing by John Mair