NSC warns against increased China influence ahead of 2025 midterm elections

August 12, 2024 , 07:49 PM

By Gabriel Kim Leal

(August 12, 2024) – The National Security Council (NSC) on Monday warned against the growing threat of foreign interference in the Philippines, particularly in the 2025 midterm elections.

NSC assistant director general Jonathan Malaya noted the concerns about pro-China entities spreading disinformation, especially on issues related to the West Philippine Sea. He pointed to trolls and think tanks as possible sources of China’s propaganda.

“Beijing talks this way, and word for word, sasabihin ‘yan ng locals dito. Obviously, these people are being manipulated or utilized by China to advance their narratives in the Philippines. ‘Yan ‘yung mino-monitor namin,” said Malaya on One News’ Storycon.

He underscored the importance of Filipinos receiving accurate information to support the government’s stance in the territorial dispute.

“They (China) are trying to weaken our position and drive a wedge between the public and between the Philippines and the United States (US) for their own interests,” added Malaya.

Last month, China claimed that it was notified by the Philippines in advance about a resupply mission to Ayungin Shoal. The Department of Foreign Affairs, however, dismissed it as a “mischaracterization,” stressing that the Philippines did not seek China’s permission.

Last month, the Armed Forces of the Philippines launched an initiative aimed at countering false narratives online that undermine the country’s efforts to challenge China’s illegal claims in the West Philippine Sea.

Beyond disinformation, the Philippines is also facing a series of hacking and cyberattacks reportedly carried out by China-backed actors.

A Global Threat Report in April revealed an increase in cyberattacks targeting the Philippines.

These issues, Malaya stressed, could affect next year’s elections.

“Our concern is like three levels. The first level is possible hacking of our systems for whatever malevolent purpose there may be. Second is the battle of narratives between certain individuals, the fight for our foreign policy. Third is payoffs or bribes to certain politicians coming from certain sources,” said Malaya.

China’s influence in the Philippines increased during the term of former president Rodrigo Duterte, who pivoted his foreign policy to Beijing.

(PM)

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