## Request to Remove Documentary Screening
Chinese authorities have formally requested the removal of a Filipino documentary from the upcoming New Zealand Doc Edge Festival, indicating that this action would benefit Chinese-New Zealand diplomatic relations.
The film, titled *Food Delivery: Fresh from the West Philippine Sea*, premiered on June 30 at The Capitol Cinema in Auckland, after previously being withdrawn from viewings in the Philippines.
## Festival Screening Controversy
Initially slated for screening at the Puregold CinePalo Film Festival in Manila, the documentary was pulled from the lineup shortly before its debut due to what the creators called “external factors.” Following this, the New Zealand Doc Edge Festival became the first international festival to pick up the film, only for festival organizers to receive similar requests from the Chinese Consulate to remove it from their schedule.
In communications viewed by 1News, the Chinese Consulate urged the festival to cancel future screenings, claiming that doing so would support “public well-being and China-New Zealand relations.” The Consulate pointed out the recent successful visit of New Zealand’s Prime Minister Christopher Luxon to China.
## Contentions Surrounding the Film
The festival’s representatives revealed that the request was preceded by multiple calls to ticketing staff and board members to eliminate the screenings. A message from the Chinese Consulate described the documentary as filled with “disinformation and false propaganda,” stating it serves as a political tool for the Philippines in asserting ungrounded claims over the South China Sea.
The email condemned the film for ignoring historical facts, depicting it as an attempt to distort the truth regarding maritime issues.
## Support for Filmmakers
Doc Edge general manager Rachael Penman announced that they would not comply with the request, emphasizing support for the filmmakers. “We are committed to independent filmmakers and chose this film for its relevance and significance,” she stated. Penman expressed hope that viewers would come to their own conclusions about the documentary.
1News sought clarity from the Chinese Embassy regarding their concerns with the film, emphasizing the need for responsible public content that reflects reality instead of spreading misinformation.
## Emphasis on Peaceful Resolution
The Chinese Embassy further asserted the importance of resolving disputes amicably and called for outside nations to support constructive dialogue rather than perpetuating conflicts.
The Philippine Embassy chose not to comment beyond stating awareness of the situation.
## Insight from the Filmmaker
Directed by Filipino filmmaker Baby Ruth Villarama, the documentary explores the experiences of local fishermen and national Coast Guard as they operate in the South China Sea, particularly around Scarborough Shoal. This area lies within the Philippines’ Exclusive Economic Zone, yet China has exerted effective control over it since 2012, dismissing an international ruling that invalidated its expansive territorial claims.
Nicholas Khoo, a senior lecturer in politics at the University of Otago, declared that there is “no ambiguity” regarding Scarborough Shoal’s status as Filipino territory. He noted that the film’s content runs contrary to Chinese assertions.
Khoo stressed that New Zealand must uphold international legal standards and advocate for freedom of navigation while avoiding aggressive tactics to resolve conflicts.
## New Zealand’s Position
The New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs echoed its commitment to freedom of expression, clarifying that while the nation refrains from taking sides in territorial disputes, it supports peaceful resolutions based on international law, particularly the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea.
In China, the film has also faced backlash, with critiques labeling it as a “propaganda piece” that ignores the complex geopolitics of the region.
Villarama explained her reasons for choosing a people-centric narrative rather than a politicized discussion. She hopes to share authentic stories that connect individuals across cultures, inviting those opposed to her film to view it and understand the realities of her country.
## Conclusion
This situation highlights the delicate nature of international relations and the impact of cultural expressions like documentaries. How do you perceive the role of art and storytelling in navigating political issues?
