Philippines Uncovers Extensive Alleged Chinese Spy Network

Philippine authorities have uncovered a network of hundreds of alleged Chinese spies operating within the country, a senior official revealed, significantly expanding previously known intelligence operations and further straining relations between the two nations, as per Bloomberg.

The suspected Chinese nationals are believed to be engaged in espionage activities, including cybercrimes, according to an official at the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), who spoke on condition of anonymity due to the sensitivity of the ongoing investigation. At least eight suspects have been apprehended earlier this year, with another eight arrests planned later this month.

The Philippines has intensified its counterintelligence efforts following a growing concern that its military has become a target of Chinese spy networks amid escalating tensions in recent years. The NBI official stated that both the US Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Australian Federal Police (AFP) have offered technical assistance in the recent espionage cases. While neither agency immediately responded to requests for comment, the US embassy in Manila stated it would not comment on law enforcement matters, allowing the NBI’s statement to stand on its own.

The disclosure comes amid heightened tensions over competing claims in the South China Sea, where Chinese vessels have repeatedly been accused of aggressive actions against Philippine boats. The NBI official noted that the military has become increasingly wary of the influx of Chinese nationals working in online gaming companies, suspecting that some may be spies.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., who has challenged Beijing’s maritime claims and strengthened military ties with the US, shut down online casinos last year that had thrived under his predecessor. He has expressed deep concern over the growing number of alleged Chinese spies in the country.

In response to inquiries, the Chinese embassy referred to a previous statement, firmly opposing “any baseless accusation and speculation aimed at smearing China and Chinese citizens.” The embassy urged Chinese nationals overseas to comply with local laws and regulations.

So far, six Chinese nationals and two Philippine citizens have been charged with espionage as part of the ongoing investigation. Deng Yuanqing, arrested in January with two local accomplices, is accused of using a vehicle equipped with spying devices to survey strategically important sites, including ports and military bases accessible to the US under a defense agreement.

The suspects are alleged to have utilized remote-access tools, including software developed by a Chinese company. The NBI is still investigating whether the espionage activity was state-sponsored and whether any compromised data was transmitted abroad.

Another group of five suspects was found to be using CCTV cameras to monitor the movements of Philippine navy and coast guard vessels heading towards the South China Sea. Officials claim they are affiliated with friendship organizations and have conducted medical missions involving local politicians.

The state-run Chinese newspaper Global Times published an opinion piece last month accusing the Philippines of “frequently sensationalizing” the issue and conducting a “propaganda campaign aimed at fostering an ‘anti-China’ atmosphere.”