Alleged wiretapping underscores need to probe Chinese influx to Philippines–Abante

Manila 6th district Rep. Bienvenido Abante Jr. (Contributed photo)

The Chinese Embassy’s release of an alleged phone conversation between a Philippine military official and a Chinese diplomat underscores the need for a thorough inquiry on the sudden influx Chinese nationals into the country.

Thus, said Manila 6th district Rep. Bienvenido “Benny” Abante Jr., who last April 30 filed House Resolution (HR) No. 1703.

The meaaure is calling on the House of Representatives to conduct an investigation into the entry of over a thousand Chinese nationals now enrolled in Cagayan Province.

“The Chinese government has tipped its hand and admitted that it may have the capacity to conduct illegal wiretapping operations in our country. This unacceptable and detestable action only serves to remind us of the need to review and improve our internal security measures,” Abante said in a statement Thursday, May 9.

“We must recognize that there is an ongoing disinformation campaign intended to sow doubt and disunity among our ranks. It is in this context that we must carefully examine developments such as this unprecedented number of Chinese nationals who suddenly want to study in an area within close proximity of EDCA (Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement) sites,” he noted.

The EDCA allows the United States (US) to rotate troops into the Philippines for extended stays and allows the US to build and operate facilities on Philippine bases for both American and Philippine forces.

Abante welcomed the support of Speaker Martin Romualdez, who has given the green light for the inquiry in relation to HR No.1703.

The alleged wiretapping raises questions about the risks of allowing large numbers of Chinese nationals to live and work in the country, said the former deputy speaker.

“We need answers to questions like these…so we can determine if having a substantial number of Chinese nationals within our borders poses a security risk,” he said.

Aside from releasing the transcript, the Chinese Embassy in Manila has allegedly threatened to release the audio recordings it obtained.

If the recordings of the conversation surface–whether authentic or not–Abante stressed that those involved should be expelled for violating the Anti-Wiretapping Law.

“The Philippines has always opened its arms to foreign guests. But if our guests violate our laws, then they should be kicked out immediately and barred from coming back,” he said. — Ellson Quismorio