Chinese Arrest Near Comelec Linked to Espionage Fears

Philippine authorities arrested a Chinese man on a tourist visa near the Commission on Elections (Comelec) headquarters in Manila for allegedly possessing surveillance equipment, including an IMSI catcher, capable of intercepting mobile communications. The suspect was observed visiting other sensitive government sites, and surveillance footage indicated the possible involvement of a second Chinese national who remains at large. The National Bureau of Investigation and government officials have classified the case as a national security issue and are conducting a thorough investigation. Senators have called for stronger legislative measures to counter espionage and foreign interference, while the Chinese embassy has denied any involvement and condemned the accusations as politically motivated. Comelec maintains that no election data was compromised, but the incident has heightened tensions between China and the Philippines, especially amid recent reciprocal espionage arrests. The episode has intensified calls for updated anti-espionage laws in the Philippines.