China’s judicial and relevant authorities to handle case of ‘PH spies’

MANILA, Philippines — Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said China’s judicial and relevant authorities will strictly handle the case of three Filipinos arrested by China for alleged espionage.

In a press conference, Lin said the Philippine consulate has so far made multiple visits to the Filipinos.

READ: PH questions alleged ‘confessions’ of 3 Filipinos arrested in China

“Competent authorities have released detailed information on the espionage activities conducted by the Philippine nationals in China. China’s judicial and relevant authorities handle the case based on facts and in strict accordance with the law and will protect the lawful rights and interests of the personnel involved,” said Lin.

“Again, China’s judicial and relevant authorities will strictly handle the case in accordance with [the] law, and protect the lawful rights and interests of the personnel involved,” he added.

The Philippine government confirmed on April 4 the arrest of three Filipinos in China for alleged espionage, noting that it has already coordinated with the Chinese government to ensure that these allegations are tried with due process and with full respect to the rights of the said Filipinos.

Foreign Affairs Spokesperson Teresita Daza said protecting the rights and interests of the said Filipinos remains the prime priority for the Philippine Government, detailing that the Philippine Consulate General in Guangzhou is presently providing all necessary assistance, including appropriate legal support, for the Filipinos.

But National Security Council Assistant Director General and Spokesperson Jonathan Malaya said the Philippines was alarmed over Chinese allegations that the three were arrested for allegedly spying for a Philippine intelligence agency.

“They are ordinary Filipino citizens with no military training who merely went to China at the invitation of the Chinese government to study,” Malaya said then.