Philippines orders probe into alleged interference in elections despite China's denial

ISTANBUL

The Philippines on Friday ordered an investigation into allegations of election interference, despite China’s denial of the claims.

The probe follows remarks from the National Security Council, which suggested that Chinese state-sponsored information operations may be interfering with the country’s upcoming elections.

Philippines President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has ordered an immediate and thorough investigation into the allegations, said Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro in a news conference.

"This is really alarming," said Castro, adding that "there will be a thorough investigation into this."

National Security Council Assistant Director General Jonathan Malaya told the Senate on Thursday: "There are indications that information operations are being conducted that are Chinese state-sponsored in the Philippines and are actually interfering in the forthcoming elections.”

The Philippines’ midterm elections are scheduled for May 12.

Although the Presidential Communications Office did not directly accuse China, the statement referenced Malaya’s comments about potential Chinese interference.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun on Thursday denied the allegations and said Beijing "follows the principle of non-interference in other countries’ domestic affairs."

"We have no interest in interfering in Philippine elections," Guo said.

Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Estrada also issued a statement on Friday, saying: “Although China has denied the accusations, our concerned government agencies must thoroughly investigate and hold accountable those attempting to influence our democratic process, whether they are foreign entities or local collaborators," according to the state-run Philippine News Agency.