By: Jandrei Cruz
Published: July 24, 2023
Before the recent approval of the movie “Barbie” by the Movie and Television and Classification Board (MTRCB) in the Philippines last July 12, a huge online discourse sent shockwaves online, gaining international attention due to a simmering hot geopolitical issue.
Weeks before approving the release of the movie in the Philippine theaters, a significant number of people were protesting online against the possibility of it being banned in the country. Certain individuals were adamant about how this completely-pink live action portrayal of a famous toy would negatively affect the country’s sovereignty. Their concerns were linked to a doodled map with its alleged depiction of the nine-dash line—a territorial claim made by China way back in 1952.
After a weeklong review involving “two meticulous discussions and deliberations” alongside several authorities in the Philippines and the MTRCB, it was decided to approve the release of the summer blockbuster Barbie in the country.
The board arrived at this decision stating that there was no clear reference to China's historical claim. The alleged map instead portrayed a doodled route of a make-believe journey upon consultation of a legal expert on the West Philippine Sea. Seeing that in the trailer, the conspicuous route is a broken line containing only 8 dashes.
The board also stated, “rest assured that the board has exhausted all the resources arriving at this decision as we have not hesitated in the past to sanction filmmakers/producers/distributors for exhibiting the fictitious ‘nine-dash line’ in their materials”. Following this, the movies Abominable (2019) and Uncharted (2022) have been previously banned in the country for their clear references of the line.
Providing Context: Historical and Legal Background of the South China Sea Dispute
With its 7th anniversary last July 12, the same day the MTRCB released the statement of approval regarding the showing of the Barbie movie, the Permanent Court of Arbitration of the Hague officially ruled a dismissal of the territorial claim to much of the South China Sea.
The panel determined that China's assertion of historic rights within the nine-dash line, which Beijing utilizes to delineate its claims in the South China Sea, lacked legal basis. Additionally, the panel found that Beijing's actions within the Philippines' exclusive economic zone (EEZ), covering a two-hundred-nautical-mile radius, including illegal fishing and environmentally damaging artificial island construction, violates Manila's sovereign rights.
The beginning of this prolonged conflict between territories occurred when the Republic of the Philippines initiated arbitral proceedings against the People's Republic of China under Annex VII of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.
Despite a favorable ruling validating the Philippines' rights in certain disputed areas, China has shown little compliance with the court's decision. Their aggressive behavior continued to persist, with military vessels intruding into Philippine territorial waters, asserting dominance in the region. Chinese coast guard ships and civilian vessels pose a significant threat to Filipino fishermen, leading to economic losses for fishing-dependent communities.
Unexpected Twist: Philippines' Leader Undermines His Own Country's Legal Victory
Going back to the past, having extensive territorial tension between two countries came as an unexpected turn of events when the leader of the Philippines—who was the primary claimant in the case, sought to undermine his own country's victory.
In May 5, 2021, President Rodrigo Duterte addressed the arbitral victory against China’s territorial claims in the West Philippine Sea as just a mere scrap paper that can be thrown away in a trash bin, implying that it held little to no significance to the country.
“Filing a case and we won. In real life between nations, that paper holds no significance… Actually, if you give that to me, I will tell you ‘Son of a **** that is just a mere paper’. I will throw that in a waste basket”, Duterte stated in his second late-night address.
The reasoning behind this approach is rooted in the belief that fostering positive relations with China could result in significant economic advantages, while adopting a confrontational stance might lead to repercussions. However, critics, both domestically and internationally, have raised doubts about the effectiveness of this approach, as the anticipated billions of dollars in investments have not materialized as promised.
Contrary to the aforementioned statement, In September of 2020, Duterte made an appearance at the United Nations General Assembly, where he reaffirmed the Philippines' victory against China in the Hague back in 2016. During his speech, he made it clear that the Philippines firmly rejects any efforts to undermine the arbitral ruling. Surprisingly, even critics of Duterte praised his unwavering stance on this matter.
These past ruling incidents show that Former President Duterte's approach towards China and foreign policy in general, was characterized by policy flip-flops, contradictory statements, and incoherent actions.
The “Barbie” Movie Controversy
Leading back to the movie, it has been showing in the Philippines since last July 19. The MTRCB have rated it as PG, although blurring the controversial part of the map upon release.
Many users on the internet have had divided reactions to the blockbuster movie. Among those who are dismayed with the nine-dash line situation, including a user on twitter who shows frustration under an ABS-CBN tweet stating that President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. showed no reluctance to the movie.
“Coward! Australia and Vietnam are fortunate with their government because they stand up for what’s right. Ours do not fight for us at all.”, said user @Julia_632.
Twitter user @SylicoNgaAko also expressed his discouragement against the Warner Bros. Pictures for defending the child-like map that got “Barbie” in this heated spot in the first place.
“‘It was not intended to make any type of statement’, the @wbpictures Film Group spokesperson told Variety.
Me: Really? It's a nine dash line however you look at it!!! If you don't mean it, then why put it? Philippines should ban it too, I say for lying!”
But contrary to these negative statements there are those avid fans of the movie or Barbie in general who strongly oppose the possibility of the ban. Even creating a hashtag on twitter: #NoToBarbieTheMovieBan. One of the users of the hashtag tweeted ;
“Ok the ‘chismis’ for today is that there is a big chance that the barbie movie won’t show in the Philippines for the same reason other countries are banning it.
AAAA we have to take action besties, let’s protect the power of storytelling!!! Join the movement and say #NoToBarbieTheMovieBan”, said @ciaraavaldez
Upon reviewing these tweets, both sides really hold strong opinions and as they are allowed to do so. In this situation, it's essential for the MTRCB and relevant authorities to carefully consider the concerns of the public and the potential impact of the movie's content. Open discussion and dialogue between all parties involved could help find a balanced resolution.
Ultimately, the movie industry, like any other form of art, can be a powerful platform for both entertainment and communication of ideas. Striking a balance between creative freedom and social responsibility is crucial. By engaging in constructive discussions and understanding different perspectives, it's possible to navigate contentious issues like these and arrive at a decision that respects both artistic expression and cultural sensitivities.
The release of this completely-pink movie triggered a years old dispute among southeast asian nations, specifically the Philippines. After a lengthened rampage and countless reviews by authorities, the fans of this movie finally got what they wanted and left those on the other side of the coin still heated.
This controversy serves as a reminder for the significance of the ongoing South China Sea dispute and its complexities. As issues persist, the role of art and media in influencing the public perception of sensitive issues cannot be underestimated.
As nations grapple with territorial disputes and geopolitical tensions, it becomes crucial for filmmakers, policymakers, and citizens to engage in meaningful discussions that respect diverse perspectives and promote understanding. The Philippines' decision to release the movie, alongside the ongoing South China Sea dispute, serves as a timely reminder of the need for open dialogue and creative expression in shaping a peaceful and harmonious future.
Sources:
https://www.cnnphilippines.com/news/2021/5/6/Duterte-PH-arbitral-win-vs.-China-a-piece-of-paper.html