The Philippine government has pushed back after China detained three of its citizens, accusing them of being Filipino spies in China. Officials in Manila are skeptical about the charges and suspect the timing isn’t a coincidence.
According to reports from Chinese media, the three allegedly gathered military intel for the Philippine government. But back home, the National Security Council (NSC) is telling a different story. They say the individuals had no military ties and were simply participants in a provincial academic exchange with Hainan.
“These were students, not spies,” NSC spokesperson Jonathan Malaya said. “They went to China as part of an official program, not to conduct surveillance.” He added that the arrests felt like retaliation—especially considering what’s been happening lately.
The Department of Foreign Affairs has requested consular access and is waiting for a formal response. So far, Chinese authorities haven’t provided many details. The situation has added stress to an already uneasy diplomatic relationship.
Philippines Crackdown on Chinese Espionage
The case of these alleged Filipino spies in China comes not long after the Philippines arrested a Chinese national, Deng Yuanqing, in January. Deng was caught near military sites in Luzon and reportedly had surveillance tools with him. Authorities believe he was linked to a university under China’s military wing. That arrest wasn’t an isolated event—it marked the beginning of something bigger.
In the weeks that followed, scrutiny intensified over donations made by Chinese-linked groups. These included cash, vehicles, and equipment sent to local police and government offices in provinces like Palawan. The donors were later found to have possible ties to Chinese Communist Party organizations.
President Marcos ordered a full review and said the level of foreign interference was “deeply disturbing.”
The government has since tightened its rules for foreign involvement in sensitive sectors. Programs once welcomed with open arms are now viewed with increased caution.
Diplomatic Fallout Intensifies
The detainment of the alleged Filipino spies in China is the latest development escalating tensions between Manila and Beijing. NSC officials believe the move is not just about law enforcement—it’s a message.
NSC officials aren’t ruling out political motives. “It sends a message,” Malaya said. “But we’re not backing down. We’ll do what’s necessary to protect our citizens.”
With trust eroding, exchanges may be paused, visas delayed, and academic collaboration put on hold. The broader chill isn’t official yet—but few expect things to warm up anytime soon.
