A racist video produced by a Chinese state media outlet sparked outrage from the Philippine government, prompting Beijing to attempt a public distancing. Chinese officials claimed the video was “not an act of the government,” seeking to limit diplomatic fallout. However, Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. dismissed this explanation as implausible. The video’s content reportedly featured a demeaning and prejudiced portrayal of Filipino citizens, fueling tensions between the two nations. This incident comes amid ongoing disputes in the South China Sea and strained bilateral relations. Teodoro’s strong rejection indicates the Philippines is unlikely to accept Beijing’s attempts to downplay the issue, highlighting a deepening rift. The incident underscores concerns about Chinese propaganda and its potential impact on regional stability.