PNP Intensifies Spy Monitoring After Arrest of Foreign Aviation Student in Zambales
The Philippine National Police (PNP) has issued a directive to all police units across the country to ramp up intelligence monitoring and counter-espionage operations. This order comes in the wake of the arrest of a foreign aviation student in Iba, Zambales, who is suspected of engaging in espionage-related activities.
Heightened Vigilance Ordered by PNP Chief
In a statement released on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, PNP Chief Police General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. emphasized the need for increased vigilance. "The safety and security of our nation remain our top priority. We must remain vigilant and proactive in identifying and neutralizing any threats, especially those involving espionage," Nartatez declared. He further instructed every police unit to stay alert and act swiftly to protect national interests.
Details of the Arrest and Suspect's Background
The suspect, a 30-year-old Mongolian national, was apprehended on February 12 by operatives of the Bureau of Immigration (BI). The arrest was conducted in coordination with the PNP, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), and the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency (NICA). The operation took place at an aviation school in Iba town, where the foreign national was reportedly a graduating student.
Intelligence reports revealed that the suspect had taken aerial photographs of Iba Airport and the nearby Palauig River area, which is located approximately five nautical miles from the airport. Investigators later uncovered that the suspect is allegedly a licensed jet fighter pilot in the Chinese military. According to the National Security Council (NSC), the individual concealed his military service background, including his jet fighter license from the People’s Liberation Army Air Force Aviation University.
Commitment to Inter-Agency Cooperation
Nartatez reassured the public that the PNP would continue to work closely with partner agencies to prevent and neutralize security risks. "We are committed to strengthening cooperation with all relevant agencies to ensure that any threats to our people are detected early and effectively neutralized," he stated. The PNP's directive aims to enhance nationwide surveillance and response mechanisms to counter potential espionage threats.
Authorities have not released further details as the investigation is still ongoing. The case highlights the ongoing efforts of Philippine security forces to safeguard national security against foreign espionage activities.
