China warns Philippines over US bases deal

Filipino activists burn a mock US flag during a protest against the visit of US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin, outside the military headquarters, Camp Aguinaldo, in Quezon City, the Philippines, on Thursday. (Photo: Reuters)

China has asked the Philippines to avoid being "taken advantage of" by the United States after the Southeast Asian nation agreed to give US military forces access to four new bases.

A statement by the Chinese embassy in Manila said Thursday's announcement by the Philippines and US was responsible for escalating tensions.