DFA confirms arrest of 3 Filipinos in China for alleged espionage

DFA logo and building facade. (INQUIRER file photo)

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine government confirmed on Friday the arrest of three Filipinos in China for alleged espionage.

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) noted that it has already coordinated with the Chinese government so that these allegations are tried with due process and that the rights of the Filipinos are fully upheld.

In a statement, Foreign Affairs Spokesperson Teresita Daza said they have been formally made aware of the charges against the three Filipinos who are currently detained in China.

“Protecting the rights and interests of the said Filipinos remains the prime priority for the Philippine government.” said Daza.

“The Philippine Consulate General in Guangzhou is providing all necessary assistance, including appropriate legal support, for the said Filipinos,” she noted.

“The Department has conveyed to the Chinese government to ensure that these allegations are tried with due process and with full respect to the rights of the said Filipinos in accordance with domestic law and the Philippines-China Consular Agreement,” she pointed out.

The Department of Foreign Affairs has yet to give details on the specific charges that were filed against the Filipinos.

According to a China Daily report quoting Chinese security authorities, one of the Filipinos was identified as David Servanez, a “long-term resident” in China who was apprehended after he was repeatedly seen “loitering near military facilities.”

The two other Filipinos were identified as Albert Endencia and Nathalie Plizardo, who the Chinese security agency also claimed to be working to “collect sensitive information.”