Synopsis
The Philippines raised concerns over the detention of three Filipino citizens in China, alleging espionage charges. The National Security Council views this as possible retaliation against recent arrests of Chinese operatives in the Philippines. The government is committed to ensuring their safety and legal support while calling for respect of their rights by Chinese authorities.Key Takeaways
- Three Filipinos arrested in China on espionage charges.
- Philippine government views arrests as retaliation.
- Individuals were vetted by Chinese authorities.
- Claims of scripted confessions were made.
- Government prioritizes legal support and safety.
Manila, April 5 (NationPress) The Philippines has expressed serious concern regarding the apprehension of three Filipino citizens in China, who have reportedly been detained on suspicion of espionage.
The country's National Security Council (NSC) indicated that their detention may be perceived as a form of retaliation in response to the recent legitimate arrests of Chinese operatives and their affiliates in the Philippines.
Furthermore, the NSC emphasized that the detained individuals are regular Filipino citizens who lack any military training.
"They are law-abiding individuals with clean records and underwent vetting by the Chinese authorities before their arrival," stated NSC Assistant Director General Jonathan Malaya.
He also referenced a manipulated video disseminated by Chinese media, purportedly showcasing the alleged "confessions" of the detained Filipinos.
"The video mentioned a Philippine Intelligence Agency, which does not exist. This strongly implies that the confessions may not have been made voluntarily," Malaya remarked.
He noted that the three detained nationals had previously benefited from the Hainan Government Scholarship Programme, created under a sisterhood agreement between the Chinese province of Hainan and the Philippine province of Palawan.
In light of these events, Malaya reassured the public that the Philippine government is committed to prioritizing their safety and ensuring they receive appropriate legal assistance.
"We call upon the Chinese authorities to uphold their rights and allow them the chance to clear their names, similar to how the rights of Chinese nationals are upheld here in the Philippines," Malaya urged.
On Thursday, China's state security officials announced that they had uncovered a case of suspected espionage, leading to the arrest of three Philippine citizens on spying allegations.
According to Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun, Xinhua News Agency reported that China's judicial and related authorities will thoroughly and lawfully address the case of suspected espionage involving Philippine nationals.
The relationship between the Philippines and China has significantly deteriorated due to tensions in the South China Sea and the increasing assertiveness of China in the Indo-Pacific region.
