The Defense Press Corps on Sunday has hit back at the Chinese Embassy in Manila’s claim that Filipino reporters lack comprehension and exaggerate facts in favor of clicks.
“The Defense Press Corps of the Philippines (DPC) takes exception to the statement issued by the Chinese Embassy in Manila, which claims that Filipino reporters have limited comprehension, exaggerate facts, take things out of context, and intentionally create hype,” it wrote in a statement.
While the Chinese Embassy did not single out the DPC, they and journalists covering developments in the disputed West Philippine Sea (WPS) and tumultuous China-Philippine relations have called out China’s “disparaging intent.”
This statement comes in response to Chinese Ambassador Jing Quan claiming China is fully capable of using force but opts for “peace.”
“If we want to use force, we may easily win. But no, we will not use force. We love peace,” he had stated.
Quan’s remarks were reported verbatim in news articles, and the DPC rejected responsibility for the consequent “political fallout” resulting from the quoted statements.
“Words have consequences. Every statement issued and every interview given carries consequences, whether intended or not. We are often reminded of this principle when the Chinese side issues radio challenges within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone (EEZ): ‘You bear the responsibility for whatever consequence of your actions,’” the DPC explained.
Filipino journalists not only witness first-hand China’s aggression in the WPS, but also consistently seek the Chinese side’s response to all issues arising from reported encounters, such as water cannon attacks, collisions, and new remarks from Philippine government officials, reasoned the DPC.
“It must be difficult for a country without a free press to understand the dynamics of journalistic independence and editorial judgement exercised without state control or oversight,” the DPC said.
The DPC said journalists’ work allows people, within and beyond the country, to form informed opinions about the issues raised.
Moreover, the DPC reminded the Chinese Embassy that, under Article 2 of the United Nations Charter, member states like China are prohibited from the threat or actual use of force to challenge the territorial integrity or political independence of any state, and settle whatever dispute through peaceful means.
“True peace is not merely the absence of animosity or aggression. It also requires creating space for mutual understanding—something that cannot be achieved if China continues to shoot at the messengers,” the DPC said.
In a Facebook post on Saturday, the Chinese Embassy Manila claimed Filipino politicians and reporters have “very limited comprehension about facts.”
“But they are good at exaggeration, taking things out of context, and creating hype,” it wrote.
Later, on the same day, the Chinese Embassy accused Philippine politicians of believing they can “get what they want by pressuring China,” and that they are in no position to demand respect.
“The Chinese people don’t buy it. Worse, their pressuring is based on twisting words and taking things out of context. As a Chinese saying goes, ‘making a case where there is none.’ Those who twist the facts have no right to lecture others about respect,” it wrote.
