China alarmed over Japan-Philippines aircraft deal

MANILA, Philippines – China expressed alarm over the recent agreement between the Japanese and Philippine governments for the transfer of defense equipment and technology from Tokyo to Manila.

Japan is set to lease five of its retired training planes to the Philippines which will be used for patrolling the disputed South China Sea.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Hong Lei reminded Japan that it is not an involved party in the sea dispute.

"We are on high alert against its move. We urge the Japanese side to act with prudence instead of further complicating the situation and jeopardizing regional peace and stability," Hong said at a press briefing in Beijing on Thursday.

Hong also warned the Philippines against challenging China's sovereignty claims over the South China Sea.

"If the Philippines is meant to challenge China's sovereignty and security interests, it will be met with firm opposition from the Chinese side," Hong said.

Japan also has overlapping territorial claims with China over the Senkaku Islands in the East China Sea.

The Philippines is the first country in Southeast Asia and the third in the world with such agreement with Japan.

Tokyo will also provide Manila with 10 boats to help the Philippine Coast Guard patrol and secure the country's maritime domain.