MANILA, Philippines — In a move to reinforce its territorial claims in the South China Sea, the Philippine government unveiled a comic book titled “The Stories of Teacher Jun” on Friday (24 Jan 2025), designed to counter China’s alleged disinformation and educate Filipinos on their sovereignty.
National Security Adviser Eduardo Año explained that the comic aims to clarify the Philippines’ rights over the West Philippine Sea, a body of water west of the nation, in light of ongoing tensions with China. “This comic book strengthens our goal to fight any attempts to blur something that is clear and true — that we own the West Philippine Sea,” Año stated during the launch.
Despite an international tribunal ruling against China’s expansive claims, Beijing continues to assert dominance over much of the South China Sea. Chinese coast guard vessels have repeatedly clashed with Philippine counterparts, stoking fears of further military escalation in the region.
The government hopes the comic, available in both English and Filipino, will bolster national pride and awareness as Manila faces China’s growing aggression in the area. Philippine Coast Guard spokesman Jay Tarriela emphasized that the book’s distribution nationwide would “reinforce the awakened patriotism of Filipinos, especially when we confront China’s aggression.”
The narrative centers around a student whose fisherman father faces increasing danger on the sea due to the presence of the Chinese Coast Guard. Under the guidance of “Teacher Jun” — a character symbolizing President Ferdinand Marcos — the student learns about international law through an analogy of house fences and backyards, helping to explain the Philippines’ legal position.
The comic’s publication was funded by private donors, Tarriela confirmed.
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