CHINA CRITICIZED OVER WEST PHILIPPINE SEA “PR STUNT”

Civil society group Atin Ito Coalition criticized China for what it called a public relations stunt after Chinese soldiers assisted a stranded Filipino fisherman on Christmas Day.

The group argued that China’s actions were propaganda-driven and intended to distract from years of harassment, illegal incursions, and violence in the West Philippine Sea.

Atin Ito noted that the fisherman, Larry Tumalis, had been safely anchored for less than 24 hours, contrary to China’s claim that he had been missing for three days.

The group warned that no act of “assistance” can justify trespassing in Philippine waters or erase China’s history of abusive actions.

Philippine Coast Guard officials said Tumalis felt threatened by the approaching Chinese Navy vessel, raising questions about China’s respect for Filipino fishermen’s rights.

Source: PhilNews24 | December 28, 2025