Several pro-Duterte vloggers and social media influencers attended a China-sponsored seminar, with all expenses paid by the Chinese government, former Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Secretary Trixie Cruz-Angeles confirmed during Friday’s House inquiry into fake news and online disinformation.
During the House Tri-Committee hearing, Deputy Speaker David “Jayjay” Suarez of Quezon questioned Cruz-Angeles about China’s National Radio and Television Administration (NRTA) and its role in training media practitioners from various countries.
Suarez presented a photo showing Cruz-Angeles and several known pro-Duterte vloggers attending the NRTA seminar.
“You are fully aware that they conduct training programs for media practitioners from different countries?” Suarez asked.
“Yes, sir,” Cruz-Angeles replied, confirming her attendance at the program held from May 23 to June 5, 2023, in China.
She named other participants, including Pia Morato, Tio Moreno (in his capacity as a journalist and information officer), Mark Lopez, and Atty. Ahmed Paglinawan. She noted that there were others but could not recall all names.
When asked who funded the trip, Cruz-Angeles admitted that the Chinese government sponsored the travel, accommodation, and seminar expenses.
“The invitation came directly from the Chinese Embassy, which regularly selects participants for these programs,” she added, noting that mainstream media practitioners have also been invited to similar programs in the past.
Suarez emphasized that the seminar was part of China’s state-funded initiatives to train media workers, including vloggers, in emerging digital trends.
Cruz-Angeles confirmed that the seminar focused on new social media techniques, including the production of short-form videos such as TikToks, reels, and one-minute YouTube videos.
Suarez asked whether this was her first time joining such a program. Cruz-Angeles said it was her first vlogger-focused seminar but mentioned a prior participation in a China-funded cultural exchange on archaeology in Xi’an.
Suarez also directed questions at pro-Duterte vlogger Mark Lopez, who confirmed his involvement.
“That was the only China-sponsored seminar I attended,” Lopez said.
When asked if the seminar influenced their perspectives or work, Cruz-Angeles downplayed its impact, saying she was already familiar with China’s history and media practices.
“The main takeaway was learning the technical aspects of short-form content creation,” she said.
Lopez, however, noted that he gained insight into how Chinese media operates.
Suarez wrapped up by acknowledging their honesty, stating:
“At least our resource persons admitted they benefited from this state-sponsored seminar,” he said, urging them to use the skills they acquired “for the benefit of the Philippines.”