In a recent Senate hearing, National Security Council (NSC) Assistant Director General Jonathan Malaya revealed alarming indicators of foreign interference in the Philippines’ upcoming midterm elections. Speaking before the Senate’s special panel on maritime and admiralty zones, Malaya stated that Chinese state-sponsored actors are allegedly conducting operations to influence the electoral process.
Malaya highlighted that these operations target candidates with strong pro-sovereignty or anti-China positions, while supporting those perceived as pro-China. He pointed out that narratives originating from Beijing are amplified by local proxies in the Philippines, creating a coordinated effort to sway public opinion. For instance, statements critical of the ongoing Balikatan military exercises, which are framed as threats to regional stability by Beijing, are echoed by these local proxies.
The NSC has reportedly identified these proxies and is closely monitoring their activities. Malaya’s testimony also shed light on the use of troll farms allegedly funded by Chinese entities to spread disinformation and undermine the credibility of anti-China candidates and the Philippine government. This revelation has sparked widespread concern, with calls for immediate and thorough investigations to safeguard the integrity of the electoral process.
Senator Francis Tolentino, who chaired the hearing, emphasized the gravity of the situation, describing it as an attack on the nation’s democratic foundations. He urged authorities to take decisive action to protect the sanctity of the elections and ensure that the Filipino people can freely choose their leaders without external interference.
The allegations have drawn mixed reactions, with China’s Foreign Ministry denying involvement and reiterating its principle of non-interference in other countries’ domestic affairs. However, the Philippine government has vowed to investigate further, underscoring the importance of preserving national sovereignty and democratic integrity.
As the May 2025 elections approach, the revelations are a stark reminder of the challenges posed by foreign interference in an increasingly interconnected world. The Philippines faces the critical task of addressing these concerns to uphold the trust and confidence of its citizens in the democratic process.
