Chinese Digital Influence in South East Asia - Philippines

Last updated: 3 Jul 2024

Introduction

Executive Summary
In the third part of our ongoing series on Chinese digital influence in Southeast Asia our focus is on the Philippines. The aim of this paper is to create a foundation on which more detailed research can be conducted as specific case studies. With increasing tensions between China and the Philippines in the South China Sea more research is urgently needed on Chinese influence operations targeting both the Philippines and the discourse around the South China Sea conflict.

Key Findings

Members of the Chinese Embassy actively use their social media accounts to spread Chinese narratives in the Philippine information space.
Official accounts are amplified by inauthentic accounts.
There are examples of inauthentic coordinated behavior in the Philippines.
The inauthentic pro-Chinese entity Asia Today is pushing out Chinese narratives around the South China Sea conflict.

Historical Background

Following its independence in 1946, the Philippines established diplomatic ties with the Republic of China and maintained them even after the nationalist government relocated to Taiwan in 1949. It wasn't until 1975 that the Philippines formally recognized the People's Republic of China and normalized diplomatic relations. Over the ensuing decades, the two countries engaged in numerous high-level visits and bilateral agreements focused on trade and cultural exchange, fostering what appeared to be a growing friendship............