By Rodolfo Dacleson II
(April 5, 2025) – The National Security Council (NSC) on Saturday sounded the alarm on the arrest of three Filipinos due to alleged espionage in China.
NSC spokesperson Jonathan Malaya said the video released by Chinese media showing the alleged “confessions” of the arrested Filipinos raised more questions than answers, noting that it appeared “scripted.”
“A portion of one of the Filipino’s statements, while expressing regret, also notably portrayed China in a positive light. There was also mention of a ‘Philippine Intelligence Agency’ or ‘Philippine Spy Intelligence Services,’ which is a non-existing government agency,” said Malaya in a media release.
Malaya added that the arrested Filipinos, who all hail from Palawan, have no military training and criminal records. They arrived in China to study at the Hainan National University through a scholarship program.
“Given the limited information released by Chinese media, the arrests can be seen as a retaliation for the series of legitimate arrests of Chinese agents and accomplices by Philippine law enforcement and counterintelligence agencies in recent months,” said Malaya.
In February, the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) apprehended five Chinese for allegedly spying on the country’s naval vessels in Puerto Princesa, Palawan.
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In January, a Chinese technical software engineer and his two Filipino accomplices were arrested by the NBI over suspected surveillance operations in key civilian and military installations.
ALSO READ: AFP to tighten security after arrest of alleged spy from China
China has not stopped its bullying tactics in the West Philippine Sea despite the Philippines’ right to sovereignty as stated by the Permanent Court of Arbitration in 2016.
Malaya urged Filipinos to stay vigilant against the accusations, noting that the NSC is coordinating with the Department of Foreign Affairs and the Philippine Embassy in Beijing to ensure the three Filipinos will receive legal support and be accorded due process.
“Let us stand united in our commitment to truth, justice, and adherence to international law while prioritizing the well-being of our citizens abroad,” said Malaya.
(PM)
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