The alleged arrest of a Chinese spy near the Comelec is extremely worrisome for Senator Risa Hontiveros, especially as the May 2025 elections approach. According to her, not only the elections but also the security of the country are affected.
A Chinese national was arrested for allegedly carrying an IMSI catcher, a device that can intercept text messages in the vicinity. The operation was conducted by NBI personnel near the Comelec office.
Hontiveros said that if it is true that the spy was caught, this will have a major impact on the relationship between the Philippines and China. He added, "the West Philippine Sea is already claimed, and our elections are also being interfered with?"
The senator called on the government to be alert and ensure that the country's politics and democracy are not influenced.
Meanwhile, Senator Francis Tolentino and Senator Alan Peter Cayetano also expressed concern. According to Tolentino, China has a record of interfering in elections in other countries such as Canada, Australia and New Zealand. Cayetano, on the other hand, said that it is easier to intervene now using social media, especially since there is still tension in the West Philippine Sea.