Senator Win Gatchalian is calling for the passage of a law that would bolster the Philippines’ defenses against espionage and foreign interference. This follows Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro’s confirmation that there are deliberate attempts by foreign entities to exploit vulnerabilities within the country.

“Marami kasing nahuhuli, high-profile o hindi, nakakalusot sa mga awtoridad. Ginagamit pa, halimbawa, ang late registration tulad ng nakita natin kay Alice Guo o Guo Hua Ping, at marami pang iba,” Gatchalian said.

He also emphasized that legislative amendments aimed at strengthening safeguards against foreign interference should focus on cybersecurity, which needs to be updated for the digital age.

Concerns over espionage have intensified in the country. Earlier this year, Chinese national Deng Yuanqing and two Filipinos were arrested for allegedly spying on key sites amid tensions in the West Philippine Sea. Just last month, a suspected underwater drone bearing Chinese labels was discovered off the coast of Palawan.

Under current laws, espionage is punishable through Article 117 of the Revised Penal Code and Commonwealth Act No. 616. These statutes prohibit acts such as spying, unauthorized sharing of sensitive information with foreign entities, and illicit access to military installations.