AFP Reports Trend of Foreign Espionage, Cites Chinese Nationals' Involvement
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has announced the observation of a concerning trend where foreign nationals, especially those from China, are increasingly involved in spying activities across the country. This revelation came during a press conference held on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, by Philippine Navy spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea, Rear Admiral Roy Vincent Trinidad.
Recent Arrests Highlight Espionage Pattern
Trinidad pointed to specific incidents that underscore this pattern. "The recent arrest of a Chinese national in Panglao, Bohol, who was attempting to misrepresent himself with a fake Philippine driver's license, and the arrest of a Mongolian national in Zambales with a questionable background follows a trend for the past two years of foreign nationals from China who have allegedly been involved in espionage in the country," he stated.
He further elaborated on previous cases, including:
- A mayor with a dubious background linked to espionage activities.
- A Chinese national conducting mapping and eavesdropping using electronic equipment.
- Individuals installing monitoring devices on approaches to Ulugan Bay.
- Arrests made in Grande Island, Subic, and Chiquita Island.
"What happened recently follows a trend of these people who were arrested, allegedly involved in espionage," Trinidad added, emphasizing the consistency of these security breaches.
Coordination with Security Agencies
In response to these threats, the AFP is actively collaborating with key security bodies. Trinidad confirmed that they are in constant coordination with the Bureau of Immigration, the National Bureau of Investigation, and other security agencies to assess the liability of those arrested. This joint effort aims to strengthen national security measures and ensure thorough investigations into alleged espionage activities.
Shift to Comprehensive Archipelagic Defense
The AFP has adopted a strategic shift in focus, as mandated by the Comprehensive Archipelagic Defense framework. This approach involves looking at the external environment to protect the country from all threats, whether foreign or domestic. Trinidad highlighted that this policy guides their operations in safeguarding Philippine sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Monitoring in the West Philippine Sea
Regarding regional security, Trinidad addressed claims about Chinese military activities. He noted that the AFP has not monitored the construction of a Chinese military base in Bajo de Masinloc, nor the deployment of missiles in the area, as earlier suggested by Philippine Ambassador to the United States Jose Manuel Romualdez.
However, he speculated on the possibility of missiles being present on Chinese warships. "It is safe to assume that warships would be armed with different missiles, so missiles aboard warships could be the same as what the good ambassador is referring to, not inside the shoal but on board ships," Trinidad explained.
From February 15 to 22, 2026, the Philippine Navy monitored significant Chinese vessel activity in key areas, including:
- Bajo de Masinloc
- Ayungin Shoal
- Escoda Shoal
- Pag-asa Island in the West Philippine Sea
A total of 18 Chinese vessels were observed during this period, underscoring ongoing maritime surveillance efforts in these contested waters.
