MANILA — Malacañang called for a deeper investigation into allegations that some Filipino politicians may be receiving support from China, warning that foreign-backed officials could compromise Philippine sovereignty and advance another country’s interests to preserve their hold on power.
Palace Press Officer Claire Castro issued the warning following Defense Secretary Gilbert “Gibo” Teodoro’s expression of concern that certain Filipino politicians could be benefiting from Chinese support.
Castro did not name any politician but stressed that elected officials must never become dependent on a foreign power for political survival at the expense of the country’s interests.
“If there are politicians who are being supported by China, then this certainly deserves a deeper investigation,” Castro said.
She warned that politicians beholden to foreign interests could promote narratives and policies favorable to their foreign benefactors rather than protect the interests of Filipinos.
The Palace statement comes amid renewed concerns over possible foreign interference in Philippine politics and China’s influence in domestic affairs.
Teodoro had earlier said there was reason to believe that certain politicians could have links to Chinese support, raising concerns over the potential implications for national security.
Castro stressed that Filipino leaders must put the country above personal political interests and should never allow foreign assistance to dictate their positions or actions.
She also urged Filipinos to remain united on issues involving national sovereignty, particularly the Philippines’ territorial and maritime rights in the West Philippine Sea.
Political differences, she said, should not weaken the country’s defense of its sovereign rights.
Castro said government officials, regardless of their political affiliations, must remain focused on protecting Filipinos and defending the country’s national interests.
Malacañang maintained that allegations of foreign backing warrant proper investigation, particularly when such relationships could compromise national security, sovereignty or the independence of Philippine political institutions./PN
