Several media groups in the Philippines have released statements condemning claims by Chinese officials alleging that videos showing the maritime tension between both countries in the South China Sea are “manipulated.”

The tension has escalated in recent years after China’s repeated “dangerous maneuvers” against Philippine ships intending to deliver supplies to the Second Thomas Shoal. During numerous occasions, China used water cannons to disrupt the Philippine supply mission. Journalists have been able to document the “near collisions” and the water cannon attacks made by Chinese ships, and these incidents have been reported as well by international media outlets.

During a press briefing on March 28, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian questioned the involvement of the media in the supply operation of the Philippines.

“Whenever the Philippines carries out an operation in the South China Sea, it brings journalists along, including photo journalists from third countries. Why would the Philippines do that?” Lin complained.

Pro-China commentators added that the operations of the China Coast Guard are “legitimate, professional, and restrained.” This was disputed by Filipino officials who accused China of continuously conducting “illegal enforcement operations in the West Philippine Sea to advance their greedy intention and unlawful ambition to occupy the waters that fall within the Philippines’ Exclusive Economic Zone.”