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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider DFA urges restraint after China launches submarine-fired ballistic missile into Pacific

DFA urges restraint after China launches submarine-fired ballistic missile into Pacific

Published Jul 8, 2026 11:23 am

At A Glance

  • The DFA expressed concern over China's launch of an unarmed ballistic missile from a submarine into the Pacific Ocean.
  • Philippine authorities received prior notification of the missile launch on July 5.
  • Manila urged concerned parties to exercise restraint and avoid actions that could heighten tensions or cause misunderstanding in the Indo-Pacific.
The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) called for restraint, transparency, and compliance with international norms after China launched an unarmed ballistic missile from a submarine into the Pacific Ocean during a military exercise. (DFA photo/file)
The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) called for restraint, transparency, and compliance with international norms after China launched an unarmed ballistic missile from a submarine into the Pacific Ocean during a military exercise. (DFA photo/file)
The Philippines, through the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), on Wednesday, July 8, called on concerned parties to exercise restraint and promote transparency after China launched an unarmed ballistic missile from a submarine into the Pacific Ocean during a military exercise.
In a statement, the DFA said the Philippines viewed China’s submarine-fired ballistic missile launch with concern and urged all relevant parties to avoid actions that could undermine peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.
“The Philippines notes with concern China’s launch of an unarmed ballistic missile from a submarine into the Pacific Ocean as part of its military exercise,” the DFA said.
“We call on relevant parties to exercise restraint, promote transparency, conduct their activities in accordance with international norms, and refrain from actions that heighten miscommunication and misunderstanding,” it added.
The Philippine government said relevant authorities received prior notification of the missile launch on July 5.
While acknowledging the advance notice, the DFA emphasized the need to preserve a “calm, secure, and stable environment” in the Indo-Pacific.
“We underscore the importance of maintaining a calm, secure, and stable environment in the Indo-Pacific region,” the DFA said. “Actions that erode confidence are unhelpful in advancing dialogue, diplomacy, and cooperation,” it added. 
The Philippines also urged concerned parties to ensure that military activities comply with international norms and refrain from actions that could heighten miscommunication and misunderstanding, particularly amid continuing tensions in the Indo-Pacific.
China’s missile launch has renewed attention to regional security concerns, including the risk of miscalculation and the need for greater transparency in military activities.
The Philippines has repeatedly stressed the importance of peaceful engagement, adherence to international law, and the use of diplomatic mechanisms to manage disputes and maintain regional stability. 
RELATED STORY: 
https://mb.com.ph/2026/07/07/us-backs-philippines-after-chinas-ballistic-missile-launch-into-pacific-ocean

Related Tags

China submarine missile launch DFA statement Philippines-China relations Indo-Pacific security ballistic missile test
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