Chinese Embassy produces music video on Philippines-China ties, draws flak online

The Chinese Embassy released a music video about the relations of China and the Philippines amid the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), according to a report of Rida Reyes on GMA News’ 24 Oras on Saturday.

Titled “Iisang Dagat,” the music video showcased the help that the Philippines received from the government of China in response to the COVID-19 threat.

The music video also featured statements from some Philippine government officials, including President Rodrigo Duterte, thanking the Chinese government.

Written by Chinese Ambassador Huang Xilian, the song was performed by Chinese diplomat Xia Wenxin, Camarines Sur Vice Governor Imelda Papin, Filipino-Chinese singer Jhonvid Bangayan and Chinese actor Yubin.

The music video received mixed reactions from netizens because of the title “Iisang Dagat.” China and the Philippines have been involved in a dispute over some territories in the South China Sea.

Some netizens also criticized Papin for her participation in the video.

As of Sunday, the music video uploaded on YouTube earned over 90,000 dislikes but only around 1,000 likes among almost 300,000 views.

In 2016, the Philippines won against China in a ruling by an international tribunal that invalidated Beijing’s massive claims in the South China Sea.

Recently, Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr. said the Philippines filed two diplomatic protests against China over supposed violations of international law and Philippine sovereignty in the territory.

The protests called out China for pointing a radar gun at a Philippine Navy ship and declaring parts of Philippine territory as part of Hainan province.

GMA News reached out to the Department of Foreign Affairs in the Philippines and the Embassy of China in Manila for their comments on the Iisang Dagat issue. They have not responded yet as of posting time. —Joviland Rita/KG, GMA News