The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has categorically denied the existence of a supposed naval standoff with Malaysian forces, labeling a viral YouTube video claiming otherwise as “entirely fabricated.”

In a statement, the AFP warned the public against believing or sharing the false video, which allegedly shows Philippine and Malaysian naval vessels in a hostile encounter.

According to the military, no such incident ever took place.

“A circulating YouTube video falsely depicts a supposed naval standoff between Philippine and Malaysian forces,” it said.

“This is entirely fabricated—no such incident occurred. It intends to strain our 60-year diplomatic ties with Malaysia, erode public trust in the AFP, and provoke unnecessary tensions,” it added.

The AFP stressed that the video appears to have been deliberately crafted to manipulate public perception and undermine the long-standing diplomatic ties between the Philippines and Malaysia, which span more than six decades.

“Such disinformation threatens peace and stability in the region, serving only political or strategic agendas,” the military stressed.

The AFP reiterated its commitment to “transparency, truth, and the protection of national interests,” urging the public to verify information from credible sources and avoid spreading unverified content.

“The truth is our strongest defense,” the AFP underscored, warning that efforts to mislead the public and stir conflict through fake news will not be tolerated.