Calls to Address Chinese Media False Narratives
Cagayan de Oro 2nd district Rep. Rufus Rodriguez has urged authorities to confront Chinese state-owned media Media Unlocked over the false narratives it spreads about the West Philippine Sea (WPS) and Philippine officials. His call came amid growing concerns over disinformation campaigns that distort facts in favor of China.
Rodriguez pointed out that the key issue involves Media Unlocked twisting narratives on platforms like WeChat. “And then their narrative on WeChat was twisted. That’s what China is doing there,” he said, highlighting a video that has gone viral showing Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief Romeo Brawner allegedly refusing to answer questions about the South China Sea.
Misleading Reports on AFP Chief
The media outlet claimed that Brawner avoided responding to inquiries from its reporters regarding the WPS dispute. However, Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Gilbert Teodoro clarified that Brawner’s reaction was due to the interviewers’ rude manner. Teodoro even labeled the reporters as “pretend journalists.”
“They are peddling false narratives on the [WPS], our government and our officials,” Rodriguez emphasized, urging the government to take a firm stance against such misinformation.
Standing Against Disinformation and Aggression
Rodriguez praised Brawner for his strong stance against China’s aggressive claims and also commended Secretary Teodoro for drawing international attention to China’s actions during the recent Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore. Both officials, he noted, have been instrumental in defending the country’s sovereignty amid escalating tensions in the West Philippine Sea.
As false narratives continue to circulate, local leaders stress the importance of vigilance and proactive measures to safeguard the Philippines’ interests and protect the truth.
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