In response to the recent apprehension of five Chinese nationals suspected of conducting unauthorized surveillance on Philippine naval installations, the Philippine Army (PA) has announced the reinforcement of its security protocols across all its camps and facilities. Army spokesperson Col. Louie Dema-ala emphasized the ongoing implementation of these measures, which include 24/7 physical security and enhanced intelligence monitoring, to safeguard the nation’s military assets.
The arrests, which took place between January 24 and 25 in various locations including Palawan, Ninoy Aquino International Airport, and Dumaguete City, led to the discovery of sophisticated surveillance equipment. This included drones and high-resolution video cameras disguised as civilian CCTVs, which were transmitting real-time data to an unknown remote location. According to AFP chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr., this could explain how foreign ships were previously aware of the movements of Philippine Coast Guard and naval resupply vessels.
The detained individuals, identified as Cai Shaohuang, Cheng Hai Tao, Wu Cheng Ting, Wang Yong Yi, and Wu Chin Ren, were allegedly involved in intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance operations. Evidence presented included images of critical military sites such as the Naval Detachment Oyster Bay in Puerto Princesa, Palawan, and footage of the Philippine Navy’s BRP Ramon Alcaraz, as well as maps of Subic Bay International Airport and Naval Operating Base Subic.
Col. Dema-ala confirmed that these security enhancements were in place even before the recent espionage incident, underscoring the army’s commitment to maintaining vigilance and protecting national security.