The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) has arrested a Chinese national and two Filipinos in Makati for allegedly spying on critical infrastructures across the Philippines, including military camps, power grids, and malls.
In an exclusive report by Mariz Umali on 24 Oras Monday, the suspects were found to be using sophisticated surveillance equipment installed at the back of a car to monitor sensitive sites.
The NBI confiscated various electronic devices, including a computer set, laptop, server, hard drives, electronic storage devices, a router, modem, mobile phone, TV monitor, and CCTV equipment. Additional items seized included an ID, passport, printer, scanner, bank book, and deposit slips indicating transactions worth millions of pesos. The authorities believe these documents and devices were used for financial transfers linked to the alleged espionage activities.
The confiscated equipment will undergo forensic investigation to determine whether the suspects gathered sensitive information that could compromise national security.
“This will support the theory that he gathered critical information that he shouldn’t have because this will affect national security,” said Senior Agent Marlon Marcelo, NBI Special Task Force Executive Officer.
The suspects are facing charges under Commonwealth Act No. 616, also known as the Act to Punish Espionage and Other Offenses Against National Security, in relation to the Cybercrime Prevention Act. However, they may face heavier charges if further evidence emerges.
“We identified that the Chinese national lived here and was using equipment to gather information. We intercepted him when he returned to his condo to transfer the data from the equipment,” Marcelo added.
The NBI is also investigating whether these suspects have links to the five Chinese nationals previously arrested for allegedly spying on Philippine vessels conducting resupply missions in Ayungin Shoal.