Philippines launches comic book to counter China's 'disinformation' in disputed South China Sea

Philippines unveils comic book countering China's territorial claims in South China Sea with colourful caricatures and clear messaging.

The Philippines launched a comic book on Friday (January 24, 2025) to counter what the country says is China's disinformation campaign to push its expansive territorial claims in the South China Sea.

The 40-page comic book, titled “The Stories of Teacher Jun,” was unveiled by Philippine officials. It contains colourful caricatures of a Filipino teacher and his young students discussing the complex territorial disputes in simple terms and highlights the Philippine position.

One fictional student in the book describes China as a bully and another says Beijing's “behaviour is outrageous”.

Also Read | China takes measures against ‘illegal’ Philippine vessels in disputed waters

“Chinese officials, along with State-sponsored media and individuals, continue to spread distorted and twisted narratives to malign our efforts and justify their unilateral claims,” national security adviser Eduardo Ano said in a speech at the book launching in Manila.

The Philippines will do everything to “fight misinformation, disinformation and false narratives to put forward the truth,” Ano told reporters.

The Philippines has faced a lopsided battle against the militarily superior China in the disputed waters of the South China Sea, prompting it to strengthen security alliances with the United States and other friendly states to build deterrence against Beijing's aggressive actions.