By Rodolfo Dacleson II
(May 11, 2025) – The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Sunday sounded the alarm on potential foreign interference in this year’s midterm elections after authorities intercepted around P441 million at Mactan-Cebu International Airport.
On Friday, authorities arrested 11 individuals, including two Filipinos and nine foreigners—mostly from China—for supposedly planning to transport the undeclared bulk of cash inside seven bags to Manila, which were detected by X-ray machines.
It violates Resolution No. 11104 of the Commission on Elections, which prohibits carrying or possessing money exceeding P500,000 during the campaign period without a permit.
“This incident raises serious concerns about potential election-related illegal activities, including vote-buying and money laundering. The involvement of multiple foreign nationals strongly suggests the alarming possibility of foreign interference in our sovereign electoral process,” said AFP in a statement.
The AFP assured the public that it will safeguard the country’s electoral process and support the investigation by the Philippine National Police (PNP) and other law enforcement agencies regarding the incident.
“We call on all citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities as we work together to safeguard the peaceful and credible conduct of the upcoming elections,” added the statement.
On Saturday, the PNP posited that the large sums of money could be connected with the ransom paid by the family of abducted and slain Filipino-Chinese businessman Anson Tan.
ALSO READ: Family of slain Fil-Chinese businessman refutes claims of POGO links
The suspects presented a certificate issued by a casino in Cebu to explain that the money was part of their winnings, adding that White House Club served as an intermediary.
The PNP recently identified White House Club and 9 Dynasty Group as the junket operators that received the ransom from the family of Tan. The investigation is still ongoing.
Last month, the National Security Council revealed in a Senate hearing that there are “indications” that China is meddling with the country’s midterm elections, including backing some candidates.
(PM)
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