Defense reporters lambast Chinese Embassy

The Defense Press Corps of the Philippines (DPC) on Monday rejected the Chinese Embassy’s accusation that Filipino journalists have “very limited comprehension” of facts and exaggerate issues, saying reporters should not be blamed for the political fallout of statements made by Chinese officials.

In a statement, the DPC took exception to the embassy’s remarks, which accused Philippine politicians and reporters of taking statements out of context and “creating hype” in their coverage of the West Philippine Sea (WPS) and bilateral relations.

The embassy issued the statement on 17 October after reports quoted Chinese Ambassador Jing Quan as saying China could easily defeat the Philippines if it resorted to force but had chosen peace instead.

The DPC said reports on the ambassador’s remarks accurately reflected his statements and that journalists could not be held responsible for the resulting political fallout.

“Filipino reporters regularly sail and fly over the West Philippine Sea, where they have witnessed and experienced Chinese aggression at sea,” the group said.

Although the embassy did not specifically name the DPC, the press corps said the message was clearly directed at journalists covering the WPS and relations between Manila and Beijing.

The group, founded in 1967, said its members had consistently sought the Chinese side’s response to issues involving the two countries to ensure fair and balanced reporting.

These included water cannon attacks, collisions at sea and remarks by Philippine government officials.

“Words have consequences. Every statement issued and every interview given carries consequences, whether intended or not,” the DPC said.

It also cited remarks often made by Chinese personnel during radio challenges against Philippine aircraft and vessels operating within the country’s exclusive economic zone.