Senator Win Gatchalian has urged Congress to pass a law strengthening the Philippines’ defenses against espionage and foreign interference, citing growing threats from foreign entities exploiting gaps in national security.
Gatchalian issued the call after Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro confirmed deliberate attempts by foreign actors to exploit vulnerabilities in the country.
“Marami kasing nahuhuli, high-profile o hindi, nakakalusot sa mga awtoridad. Ginagamit pa, halimbawa, ang late registration tulad ng nakita natin kay Alice Guo o Guo Hua Ping, at marami pang iba,” Gatchalian said.
The senator stressed the need to update legislation, particularly to address cybersecurity concerns in the digital age. He said safeguards must be modernized to effectively counter infiltration and interference.
Concerns over espionage have mounted in recent months. Earlier this year, Chinese national Deng Yuanqing and two Filipinos were arrested for allegedly spying on key sites amid tensions in the West Philippine Sea. In September, a suspected underwater drone with Chinese labels was found off the coast of Palawan.
Currently, espionage is punishable under Article 117 of the Revised Penal Code and Commonwealth Act No. 616, which prohibit spying, unauthorized sharing of sensitive information with foreign entities, and illicit access to military installations.
Gatchalian said strengthening the legal framework is vital to ensure the country is adequately protected from emerging espionage tactics.
