The Philippines has unveiled a comic book aimed at countering what it describes as China’s aggressive disinformation efforts regarding territorial claims in the South China Sea. The 40-page publication, titled “The Stories of Teacher Jun,” was presented by local officials on Friday. This colorful comic features a fictional Filipino teacher and his students, who engage in discussions about the intricate territorial disputes using accessible language that emphasizes the Philippines’ stance.
Within the narrative, one of the students portrays China as a bully, while another student critiques Beijing’s behavior as “outrageous.” National security adviser Eduardo Ano addressed attendees at the launch event in Manila, stating that Chinese officials and media persistently propagate deceptive narratives to undermine the Philippines’ initiatives and to validate their unilateral claims in the region. He affirmed the commitment of the Philippines to combat misinformation and false narratives in order to present the truth to the public.
The Philippines faces significant challenges in its struggle against China, which possesses a more advanced military presence in the contested waters of the South China Sea. In response, the country has been actively reinforcing security partnerships with the United States and other allied nations to deter China’s escalating confrontations. Two years ago, the Philippines initiated a campaign that showcased videos and images detailing China’s increasingly assertive maneuvers in the disputed area, including aggressive use of water cannons and hostile blockades, targeting both domestic and international audiences.
Despite these efforts, tensions between Chinese and Philippine coast guard forces have persisted. The comic book launch was attended by ambassadors from the United States and Canada, both of which are significant allies of the Philippines in standing against China’s assertiveness in the region. Also present were representatives from the Philippine coast guard, military, and the education department.
Chinese officials have not made any immediate statements regarding the comic book. However, they have consistently reaffirmed their extensive claims over the South China Sea, accusing the Philippines and other claimant nations of encroaching on their territory. Other countries, including Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei, and Taiwan, also assert their rights over this vital maritime route, known for its rich fishing resources and potential undersea gas deposits.
So far, around 11,000 copies of the comic book have been distributed free of charge, with plans to print additional copies based on available funding. The primary audience for this initiative consists of young students and individuals in remote areas with limited access to reliable news. Officials have indicated that interested foreign readers could receive translated versions of the comic book.
“This project aims to emphasize our maritime rights while exposing China’s unlawful actions and bullying tactics,” Ano explained. He underscored the importance of transparency as an essential strategy in the battle against misinformation, highlighting the need for the public to be informed about such critical issues.
