Philippines Arrests Chinese National Over Suspected Espionage Activities Near Military Sites

Filipino national security adviser Secretary Eduardo M. Año said the arrest ‘is a stark reminder of the persistent threats posed by foreign interference.’

China's largest coast guard vessel 5901 in the Philippine exclusive economic zone in the South China Sea on Jan. 5, 2025. Philippine Coast Guard via Reuters

A Chinese national was arrested in the Philippines for allegedly conducting surveillance operations on military facilities.

At a press conference in Manila on Jan. 20, the Chinese suspect was identified as Deng Yuanqing, whom local investigators said is affiliated with the Army Engineering University of the People’s Liberation Army in China.