Malacañang has expressed serious concern over reports from the National Security Council (NSC) suggesting that China may be interfering in the 2025 Philippine midterm elections.
According to Palace Press Officer Undersecretary Claire Castro, the issue has already been brought to the attention of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. and is now under investigation.
The Chinese government, however, denied the accusations. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun insisted that China adheres to the principle of non-interference in other nations’ internal affairs, stating they have “no interest” in meddling with the Philippine electoral process.
During a Senate inquiry into Chinese espionage and submersible drone activity in Philippine waters, NSC Assistant Director General Jonathan Malaya confirmed there are signs of China-backed information operations supporting certain candidates.
The administration-aligned political group Alyansa Para Sa Bagong Pilipinas echoed the Palace’s concern. Campaign Manager Toby Tiangco called it a national security issue, emphasizing that any form of foreign interference in the democratic process is unacceptable.
“Every Filipino has the right to choose their leaders freely. Any attempt to manipulate that process violates our sovereignty and must be condemned,” Tiangco said, urging a swift investigation and accountability.