DFA takes alleged foreign espionage ops in PH seriously

By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora, Philippine News Agency

SPY. The National Bureau of Investigation presents to the media the alleged Chinese spy and his two Filipino accomplices on Jan. 20, 2025. The Department of Foreign Affairs said Thursday (Jan. 23) is taking seriously any indication of espionage operations by foreign nationals in the Philippines. (PNA photo by Ben Pulta)

MANILA – The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) is taking seriously any indication of espionage operations by foreign nationals in the Philippines.

In a statement Thursday, DFA spokesperson Ma. Teresita Daza said the agency notes the ongoing investigation being conducted over alleged espionage activities by a Chinese national in collaboration with Filipinos in the country.

“In accordance with its mandate to help protect national security, the Department takes any indication of espionage operations by foreign nationals seriously,” she said.

The DFA, Daza said, stands ready to support the Department of Justice, the National Bureau of Investigation, the Armed Forces of the Philippines and other relevant government agencies as they undertake their respective mandates in accordance with the law.

Initial reports said a Chinese national and his two Filipino accomplices conducted surveillance operations in key civilian and military installations using a sports utility vehicle loaded with devices for espionage.

The three were arrested on Jan.

17 by National Bureau of Investigation operatives at a condominium in Makati City.