Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. is not ''alarmed'' or ''surprised'' at the recent harassment of Chinese People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) against a Philippine Navy ship in Scarborough Shoa,l noting that the Philippines have "to expect more of the same".

"I'm not alarmed and I'm not surprised... We have to expect those things to happen and it is a choice," he said.

"We have to expect more of the same. I mean under the law we cannot ignore our duty to uphold our jurisdiction. That's not possible. Are they dictating the laws of the world? No," he added.

Teodoro said China is the only country that does not adhere to the rule of law.

"They are valedictorians in not following the rule of law... No one can be disappointed by the latest incidents. We are not disappointed, we expected it. I mean, that's why we need to prepare for and oppose it," he said.

The Philippine Navy ship BRP Emilio Jacinto was patrolling at the area approximately 11.8 nautical miles southeast of Bajo de Masinloc when Chinese warships tailed and crossed its bow in "a high-risk maneuver" on May 5.

In a statement, "the Armed Forces of the Philippines expresses its serious concern over these irresponsible actions by Chinese maritime forces" noting that "such threatening and provocative conduct can lead to misunderstanding that may escalate tensions and impact regional stability." Robina Asido/DMS