Philippines Dangerously Playing With Fire? U.S. Nuclear Missiles, Russian Attack Submarine and China ICBMs All In Play

The Philippines is making dangerous moves. After Manila allowed the US to increase its military bases all over the country, it is now in the middle of a geopolitical tinderbox.

With the U.S. stationing its NUCLEAR-capable Typhon missile system in the Philippines, and a Russian attack submarine recently spotted lurking in the West Philippine Sea and China testing more intercontinental missiles that flies over the Philippines in response to US military expansion in Southeast Asia.

While allies like Japan and Australia claim to support the Philippines the rest of ASEAN is keeping its distance, sticking to a neutral stance in the escalating U.S.-China showdown. So, where does this leave us?

U.S. Typhon Missile System: A Deadly Presence

Earlier this year, the U.S. deployed its nuclear-capable Typhon missile system in Northern Luzon as part of joint military exercises. Military officials initially said the missiles were only in the country on a temporary basis but here’s the kicker: the system now has no plans of leaving. DND Secretary Teodoro even asserted the country’s right to acquire the missile system, which would give the Philippines the capability to hit targets inside China, including Taiwan.

Capable of carrying nuclear warheads and firing precision-guided missiles like the Tomahawk, this isn’t just a defense tool; it’s a game-changer in regional military balance. The U.S. claims it’s to strengthen the Philippines’ defenses, but let’s be real—this puts us squarely in China’s cross hairs.

China’s reaction? Furious. Beijing has accused the Philippines and the U.S. of destabilizing the region. And they’re not bluffing— just last September, China launched an intercontinental ballistic missile into the Pacific Ocean, flying over the northern point of the Philippines in what is reported to be the first such test since the 1980s. Are we ready to handle the fallout if China decides to play hardball?

Russian Attack Submarine in West Philippine Sea

If hosting advanced U.S. missiles wasn’t enough, last week brought another jaw-dropping moment: a Russian attack submarine was detected within the Philippine exclusive economic zone. The submarine was found just 80 nautical miles off Mindoro. President Marcos called the incident “very worrisome,” and honestly, he’s not wrong. Unauthorized foreign military activity in our waters raises a terrifying question: are we becoming a battleground for global powers?

Ukraine saw the worst of being a proxy in the US-Russia with over 500,000 dead and counting.

Dangerously Provoking the Superpowers

Let’s talk about money—because this isn’t just about security; it’s about survival. China is our biggest trading partner and neighbor, with billions of pesos worth of goods flowing between us. But by aligning closely with the Washington, we risk alienating Beijing.

What if China slaps us with sanctions, cuts back on trade and investments or ignores the Philippines all together in its regional economic plans? That’s a direct hit to Filipino job seekers, consumers and businessmen.

And let’s not forget: military alliances cost money. Acquiring advanced weapons and hosting U.S. troops means pouring billions into defense, potentially at the expense of social services. Can we afford this gamble?

Is the Philippines Losing ASEAN’s Trust?

While we’re cozying up to the U.S., our ASEAN neighbors are keeping things cool. Countries like Indonesia, Vietnam and Malaysia are refusing to take sides, focusing on economic growth and peace. By openly following the US military alliance, we risk losing our influence in ASEAN, a bloc that’s crucial for regional stability and economic growth. Are we okay with being seen as the pariah in the region?

The Philippines is playing a dangerous game. Hosting U.S. missiles, dealing with Russian attack submarines and China’s ICBM might look like power moves, but they come with risks that could hit Filipinos where it hurts—our economy, our sovereignty, and our regional relationships.

So, where do we go from here? Do we double down on our alliance with the U.S. and hope for the best, or do we step back and reassess before the storm hits? One thing’s for sure: the stakes have never been higher, and the consequences could shape our future for generations. Are we ready for what’s coming?