The Bureau of Immigration (BI) revealed that some suspected Chinese spies have entered into marriages with Filipinas to disguise their covert operations in the Philippines.
BI Spokesperson Dana Sandoval stated that at least three of the recently arrested individuals used their marriages as a cover to avoid suspicion.
“Tatlo sa kanila ay may asawang Filipina. Ginagamit nila na cover ito dun sa mga suspicious activities that they have been caught doing by the NBI and PNP,” Sandoval was quoted as saying by ABS-CBN News.
Authorities arrested five more Chinese nationals on suspicion of espionage, following an earlier arrest of another Chinese citizen linked to illegal surveillance.
Although the suspects hold valid work visas, immigration records suggest they sought to maintain clean records to avoid unnecessary scrutiny. Deportation cases are being prepared, but the BI clarified that no orders will be executed until legal proceedings are completed.
Meanwhile, the Philippine National Police (PNP) is investigating the scope of the alleged espionage and potential threats to national security. They are coordinating with the National Bureau of Investigation and the Armed Forces of the Philippines to determine any links to previous arrests involving illegal intelligence activities.
“Pinag-aaralan na ‘yung mga nakumpiska sa kanilang equipment as to its capability in terms of intelligence gathering lalong-lalo na involving sa ating camps and vital installations po,” said PNP spokesperson PBGen. Jean Fajardo.
Authorities are also preparing to file charges against individuals who may have aided the suspects in their illicit operations.
