Filipinos should not be surprised by the caricature video released by China that depicts Filipinos as monkeys because this is a normal form of political discourse, according to geopolitical analyst Prof. Lucanus Azrael T. Igot.
The expert explained that in previous years, it has become customary to create similar drawings, especially in response to China’s moves to occupy the West Philippine Sea.
However, Prof. Igot clarified that these incidents have not received official reactions, including from the United Nations, because they are understood as a form of intimidation.
On the other hand, the analyst also confirmed that not all Chinese officials are in favor of claiming the West Philippine Sea, as there are other diplomats who believe the 2016 tribunal decision should be respected.
