Manila, Philippines – An AI-generated video released by the Chinese state-run media outlet China Daily regarding the 2016 South China Sea arbitration gain criticism and condemnation as the government agency took issue with the media outlet’s depiction of Filipinos as a monkey.
The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) demanded that China Daily remove the video and call on Beijing to uphold its dignity and respect the truth in the eyes of the public.
The DFA also condemned China’s racist depictions of Filipinos and refuted the false narrative and distortion of the Arbitral Award concerning the Philippines’ sovereignty in the South China Sea.
The Department of National Defense (DND) described the video as a mockery of the historic 2016 Arbitral Award and an affront to Filipinos.
Several lawmakers also expressed their dismay with China; ML Partylist Representative Leila De Lima called China a bully due to its desire to claim Philippine waters.
ACT Teachers Partylist Representative Antonio Tinio criticized China, stating that the propaganda reflects weakness and moral bankruptcy, as the country has failed to defend its baseless claims in the West Philippine Sea.
Senator Robinhood Padilla also condemned China’s racist behavior.
Padilla stated that the depiction of Filipinos is infuriating and must be condemned.
Various groups also expressed their condemnation of China’s racism.
According to Filipino Do Not Yield Movement Chairman Emeritus Dr. Jose Antonio Goitia, the video attacks not only the Philippines but also the dignity of every Filipino.
Goitia also believes that such racist insults reveal the weakness of China’s own arguments.
The DFA has lodged a diplomatic protest against China regarding the said AI-generated video.
Meanwhile, the Chinese Embassy in Manila has not yet issued a statement regarding the video. — Alvin Pelobello, Eurotv News