AFP backs probe into alleged espionage network after NSC confirmation

MANILA, Philippines — The military on Thursday expressed support for government efforts to investigate an alleged espionage network involving Filipino nationals, the same network that the National Security Council (NSC) confirmed had links to Chinese intelligence.

Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) spokesperson Col. Francel Margareth Padilla said in a statement that the military “is aware of reports regarding the dismantling of an alleged espionage network operating within the country.”

She added that authorities uncovered activities involving Filipino nationals who are now cooperating with investigators and whose actions “appear to be linked to foreign-directed malign activities.”

Padilla highlighted that modern espionage increasingly relies on cyber and technological methods, making vigilance and inter-agency coordination essential. 

“The situation was detected and addressed through coordinated government action among relevant security and law enforcement agencies,” she said.

On Wednesday, the NSC confirmed in a statement that authorities had uncovered a “serious national security matter” involving espionage activities linked to the People’s Republic of China.

READ: China-linked espionage uncovered in PH, says NSC

NSC spokesperson Cornelio Valencia Jr. said the operations of individuals acting “on the behest of Chinese intelligence” have already been addressed and terminated. 

He added that all the individuals involved, who are Filipino nationals, had confessed to participating in espionage activities and are cooperating with authorities.

Several government agencies carried out the apprehensions under the Insider Threat Program, which safeguards sensitive information and operations from foreign espionage and malicious compromise.

Officials declined to provide further operational details, citing national security concerns.

Padilla said the AFP continues to support measures to strengthen safeguards protecting national security, including improvements to legal and institutional frameworks to address evolving threats.

The NSC also urged Congress to prioritize two proposed measures aimed at enhancing the country’s counterintelligence capabilities: a new anti-espionage law to replace Commonwealth Act No. 616 and the proposed Anti-Foreign Malign Influence and Interference Act. 

According to the NSC, the proposed laws would expand investigative powers and help authorities prevent and disrupt hostile foreign operations against the country’s institutions and critical infrastructure if enacted. /jpv