Authorities have apprehended a Chinese national and two Filipinos for allegedly conducting surveillance on critical infrastructures across the country, including military camps, power grids, and commercial establishments.
According to a 24 Oras report, the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Special Task Force carried out the arrests following intelligence reports that the suspects were using advanced surveillance equipment mounted on a vehicle.
During the operation, agents seized multiple electronic devices, including a computer set, laptop, server, hard drives, routers, modems, mobile phones, and CCTV equipment. Investigators also found financial records showing transactions worth millions, along with an ID, passport, scanner, and various documents suspected to be linked to the operation.
The confiscated materials will undergo forensic analysis to determine if classified information was obtained and whether national security was compromised.
“This supports the theory that they may have gathered sensitive information that could impact national security,” said NBI Special Task Force Executive Officer Marlon Marcelo.
The suspects are currently facing charges under Commonwealth Act No. 616, which penalizes espionage and threats to national security, in relation to the Cybercrime Prevention Act. However, authorities indicated that additional charges might be filed based on the evidence recovered.
Investigators are also probing whether the arrested individuals have ties to another group of Chinese nationals accused of spying on Philippine vessels during a resupply mission to Ayungin Shoal. The case remains under investigation.
