(CNN Philippines) Metro Manila — The recent agreements between the United States and the Philippines are not directed at any country, as these only aim to help in terms of defense capability and disaster resilience, said Philippine Ambassador to Washington Jose Manuel “Babe” Romualdez.

“Every country has its own interpretation. To us, we are only doing what is rightfully our right to defend ourselves. None of these moves are being directed to any country,” Romualdez told CNN Philippines’ The Source on Friday.

This was his response when asked about the Chinese Embassy’s statement against the announcements made by US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin III regarding Washington’s commitment to help “address destabilizing activities” in Philippine waters.