The Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Manila described allegations of “espionage” operations by one of its citizens in the Philippines as “baseless speculation and accusation.”

This statement came after the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) announced the arrest of a Chinese citizen along with two Filipino accomplices for allegedly conducting surveillance in the country.

The arrested individuals were reportedly visiting military camps, power plants, local government units, police camps, shopping malls, and Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) sites, according to NBI Cybercrime Division chief Jeremy Lotoc.

Authorities said the group was found with a vehicle outfitted with intelligence and reconnaissance equipment capable of creating 3D maps of the areas they visited.

In a statement yesterday, the Chinese Embassy said the family of the Chinese national apprehended by Philippine authorities had approached them about his safety and fair treatment. They also presented information contradicting the “accusations” made by Philippine officials.

“We urge the Philippine side to base its judgment on facts, not to make presumption of guilt, stop airing groundless speculations about the so-called ‘Chinese spy case,’” the Chinese Embassy spokesperson said.

The embassy also called on the Philippine government to handle the case in accordance with the law, fulfill its obligations under the bilateral consular treaty, and ensure the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese citizens in the Philippines are protected.

Additionally, the Chinese Embassy requested to conduct a consular visit to their citizen in Philippine custody to provide consular assistance.