A growing number of Philippine senators have condemned an AI-generated video by China Daily that depicted Filipinos as monkeys. This incident has further strained diplomatic relations between the Philippines and China.
The video featured a monkey in a traditional barong, manipulated to sing by arms labeled with the names of Japan and the United States. It culminated in the monkey being sprayed with a water cannon.
In response, the Philippine government lodged a diplomatic protest, denouncing the video as "demeaning, dehumanizing, and racist."
Senators Speak Out Against Racism
The Chinese government owes the Filipino people a public apology. Until then, this utterly racist act will stand as a violation of the most basic standards of respect that should govern relations between nations.
Senator Risa Hontiveros
Senator Risa Hontiveros described the content as appalling, calling it a severe blow to China's credibility in promoting friendship with the Philippines.
Senator Panfilo Lacson emphasized that if China views Filipinos in such a derogatory manner, it reflects poorly on its own character. He cited the incident as a reinforcement of the 2016 Arbitral Award, which supports the Philippines’ claims in the West Philippine Sea.
Senators Francis Pangilinan and Juan Miguel Zubiri also condemned the video, asserting that disputes should be resolved through legal means rather than intimidation.
Contrastingly, Senator Robin Padilla suggested that the controversy was initiated by a Philippine Coast Guard official, sparking further debate about the country's response.
Defense Department's Stance
Assistant Secretary Arsenio Andolong from the Department of National Defense noted that 17 countries supported the arbitral ruling, and he pledged to document aggressive actions in Philippine waters.
He stated, "We will demonstrate to the world that our actions are rooted in evidence, truth, and international law—not propaganda. This legal victory is an enduring inheritance belonging to every Filipino citizen."