Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. has dismissed China's criticism of the reaffirmed support of the United States to the Philippines following the collision incident between China Coast Guard vessels and Armed Forces of the Philippines-charted resupply boats in Ayungin Shoal in the West Philippine Sea last 22 October.

"This off-repeated narrative of China of which it seeks bilateral talks—where uses its leverage to muscle smaller opponents—is already disingenuous. And the whole world knows the danger of entering into the trap of narratives," Teodoro said in a television interview. 

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning earlier said the US should stay away from the affairs of China and the Philippines as it is " not a party to the South China Sea issue."

Mao said the US "has no right to interfere" on the issue.

"The US defense commitment to the Philippines should not undermine China's sovereignty and maritime rights and interest in the South China Sea, nor should it support the illegal claims of the Philippines," she added. 

Teodoro said joint maritime patrols with the US during the country's resupply missions in the WPS "could be an option for the Philippines following the latest China's aggressive action in the Ayungin Shoal.

The defense chief maintained that the Philippines is "not at war with China" despite Beijing's growing acts of aggression in the WPS.

"We don't want a war with China, but we are resolute about defending our territory," said Teodoro.