Rights defenders in the Philippines have strongly condemned the recent racist portrayal of Filipinos as monkeys by Chinese state-backed media, calling it a recycled imperialist tactic reminiscent of American colonialism.

Progressive groups like Bayan Muna and human rights advocates argue that such depictions are not isolated incidents but part of a historical pattern used to justify foreign domination.

Former representative Carlos Isagani Zarate labeled the media content a 'dangerous provocation' that undermines mutual respect between nations, drawing parallels to U.S.colonial-era propaganda that depicted Filipinos as backward.Bishop Felixberto Calang criticized China's resort to racist slurs as a sign of desperation, while Fr.Raymond Ambray condemned the dehumanization as an attempt to reduce Filipinos to subjects of exploitation.

Legal experts like Raymond Marvic Baguilat emphasized that such rhetoric is unjustifiable, urging both governments to prioritize peaceful diplomacy over geopolitical rivalry.The article highlights the broader tensions in the West Philippine Sea and calls for vigilance against any attempts to diminish Philippine dignity.The condemnation underscores the need for mutual respect and dialogue in international relations.