The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has announced it is closely monitoring reports of alleged foreign covert operations in the Philippines, raising concerns about national security and potential foreign interference. This development comes after the House of Representatives brought up the issue of Chinese spies during its hearings on the citizenship of dismissed Bamban, Tarlac Mayor Alice Guo.
The Al Jazeera Documentary and the Allegations:
The House panel presented an excerpt from an Al Jazeera documentary featuring tycoon She Zhijiang, who claims to be a former Chinese spy. The documentary includes a dossier on Guo Hua Ping, allegedly Mayor Guo's real name, with familiar details of her birthplace and mother. She Zhijiang claims Guo Hua Ping sought funding from him for her mayoral candidacy.
The DFA's Response:
DFA spokesperson Ma. Teresita Daza stated that the department takes these reports seriously and is coordinating with other government agencies to investigate.
The NSC's Assurance:
The National Security Council (NSC) has assured the public that it has "effective counterintelligence efforts" against foreign spies operating in the country. However, the NSC also acknowledges the need to validate the information provided by She Zhijiang, considering his criminal background.