The Philippine government has strongly condemned an artificial intelligence (AI)-generated video published by China’s state-run China Daily, describing it as “dehumanising and racist” amid escalating tensions over the disputed South China Sea.
According to Philippine officials, the video depicts the country as a frightened monkey wearing a shirt bearing the Philippine flag while being forced onto a makeshift karaoke stage by arms displaying the flags of the United States and Japan. The portrayal has sparked widespread outrage in Manila, with officials accusing the publication of promoting racist stereotypes and undermining the dignity of the Filipino people.
The controversial video was released against the backdrop of rising tensions between China and the Philippines over disputed territories in the South China Sea, particularly the Spratly Islands and Scarborough Shoal. The two countries have repeatedly exchanged accusations following confrontations involving coast guard and naval vessels in the contested waters.
Philippine authorities criticised the video as an attempt to ridicule the country and misrepresent the nature of its security partnerships with the United States and Japan. Officials maintained that Manila’s alliances are aimed at protecting its sovereignty and promoting regional stability, rather than provoking conflict.
The incident has further strained already fragile relations between Beijing and Manila, with analysts warning that inflammatory rhetoric and propaganda could complicate ongoing diplomatic efforts to manage disputes in one of the world’s busiest and most strategically important waterways.
The South China Sea remains a major source of regional tension, with several countries claiming parts of the resource-rich waters. The latest controversy is expected to intensify international attention on the increasingly volatile dispute.
By Mandy Salma Yussif
