Philippines slams 'racist' Chinese state media AI video depicting Filipinos as monkeys; demands removal amid South China Sea tensions

The Philippines has sharply rebuked a Chinese state media AI-generated video that depicted Filipinos as monkeys, labeling it as "racist" and "unacceptable." The video, released by China Daily on July 10, coincided with the anniversary of the 2016 ruling that invalidated China's expansive claims in the South China Sea.¹⁴

The Philippine foreign ministry stated, “We draw a firm line at the depiction of Filipinos as monkeys in the 10 July 2026 video, which is deeply offensive, distressing, and unacceptable,” emphasizing the need for mutual respect between nations. The video shows a monkey in traditional Filipino attire being manipulated by hands labeled "USA" and "Japan," before being thrown into the sea and blasted by a water cannon from a Chinese vessel.⁶

Philippine Defence Secretary Gilberto Teodoro condemned the video as “contemptible propaganda” and a disgrace to any state claiming responsible regional leadership. He criticized the portrayal as a reflection of China's “moral and intellectual bankruptcy” in its propaganda efforts.³

The Philippines lodged a formal protest, stating that the video went beyond legitimate political debate, resorting to “demeaning, dehumanizing, and racist depictions of Filipinos.” In response, China's Foreign Ministry spokesperson dismissed the video as not representing the official position, reiterating that the South China Sea arbitration is “a political farce disguised as a legal proceeding.” The incident has heightened tensions between the two nations, already strained by aggressive maneuvers in the contested waters.

The Philippines commemorated the anniversary of the July 12, 2016 ruling as a landmark victory of the rule of law against aggression, with support from the United States and other nations reaffirming the ruling.