MANILA – In a recent statement, National Security Adviser Eduardo Año has urged the Philippine Congress to swiftly enact amendments to the Espionage Act and the Countering Foreign Interference and Malign Influence Bill. Año emphasized the necessity of these legal enhancements to combat the growing threats to national security effectively.
Año highlighted that the proposed changes would ensure severe repercussions for those attempting to undermine the nation’s security. He praised the efforts of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, the National Bureau of Investigation, and the intelligence community for their role in apprehending a Chinese national and two Filipino accomplices involved in espionage and surveillance activities.
The arrests serve as a reminder of the ongoing dangers posed by foreign interference, according to Año. He reiterated the government’s dedication to countering espionage and other harmful operations that threaten critical infrastructure, defense facilities, and overall national security.
Año stressed the importance of continuous vigilance and enhanced coordination among government agencies to strengthen the national security framework. He also called on the public to report any suspicious activities to the Philippine National Police and other relevant agencies.
Meanwhile, the Armed Forces of the Philippines, through spokesperson Col. Francel Margareth Padilla, confirmed ongoing operations to thwart espionage attempts. Philippine Navy spokesperson Rear Adm. Roy Vincent Trinidad added that information gathered by spies could be used by foreign entities to gain an advantage over the Philippines.
In response to these threats, the Philippine National Police (PNP) has tightened security protocols at police camps and intensified efforts against cybercrime. The PNP’s Anti-Cybercrime Group, Directorate for Intelligence, and Criminal Investigation and Detection Group are actively working to neutralize cyber threats. Additionally, the PNP has established a Cyber Security Operations Center to bolster national security infrastructure and address emerging digital risks.