China Central Television (CCTV) anchor, He Jia, accidentally claimed the Philippines as China’s territory on Monday. In a nationally televised news broadcast, Jia reported that the Philippines was “China’s inherent territory”. Jia actually meant the Huangyan Islands, or the Scarborough Shoal, which both countries are claiming.
The video found its way onto the internet. The slip received unusual reactions from Chinese viewers, who called Jia a good patriot and even affirmed her statement. Jia issued an apology on her Weibo account.
Amidst rising tensions over the disputed island in the South China Sea, both countries are saying that they are resorting to diplomatic resolutions. The Philippines is taking action to improve its military to uphold national security while China warns that they are prepared to go to war if tensions escalate.
