The National Intelligence Coordinating Agency (NICA) confirmed that China’s espionage activities in the Philippines have been extensive, as revealed during a Senate hearing on November 26.
In the continuation of the investigation into the illegal operations of Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) in the country, NICA Deputy Director General Ashley Acedillo revealed that they have monitored Chinese hackers, referred to as Advanced Persistent Threat (APT) groups, whose targets include not only the government but also the private sector.
According to reports, the hackers are believed to be backed by a foreign country. The APT40 and APT41 groups, operating with Chinese spies, have reportedly made frequent visits to the Philippines.
Furthermore, it was through these groups that the information emerged, connecting Guo Hua Ping, also known as Alice Guo, to Chinese espionage.
Acedillo also confirmed that NICA has been monitoring malign influence and foreign interference activities in POGO hubs and gambling sites, such as the Cagayan Economic Zone Authority (CEZA).
This also involves the attempted development of a "smart city" on Fuga Island in Cagayan, which was eventually halted after it was deemed a national security risk.
The official further emphasized that no region in the country is safe from China’s espionage activities.
In relation to this, Acedillo stated that he is willing to attend an executive session to disclose information regarding the alleged espionage activities.
"As a matter of fact, madam Chair, we are willing in an executive session to brief the Chairperson and the members of the Committee as to the extent of such Chinese – and we will call them under the nomenclature MIFI – Malign Influence and Foreign Interference Activities," said Acedillo,
"The request is made because first of all, we’d like to acknowledge that the extent is pervasive and as of the initial briefings that we’ve had from our regions, mukhang wala pong region na exempted," he added.
Meanwhile, Senator Risa Hontiveros stated that the spread of fake news by Chinese hackers through POGOs is also widespread.
She further noted that the recent attacks targeting her and Senator Sherwin Gatchalian, in connection with their investigation into POGO operations in the country, should not come as a surprise.
