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NBI probes Makati firm allegedly hired by China to meddle in elections
A House lawmaker is urging the swift filing of criminal cases against entities allegedly involved in China's interference in the upcoming Philippine elections.
The alleged interference involves a Makati-based PR firm, InfinitUs Marketing Solutions Inc., hired by the Chinese Embassy to deploy "keyboard warriors" on social media.
National Security Council Assistant Director General Jonathan Malaya stated that the Chinese Embassy contracted the firm for these operations, presenting a contract and a check as evidence.
Senator Francis Tolentino revealed the service agreement dated August 2023 between the Chinese Embassy and InfinitUs Marketing Solutions Inc. during a Senate hearing, noting the firm received P930,000 and initiated online campaigns criticizing the Philippine government and promoting Chinese policies.
China has denied these allegations, asserting no interest in influencing Philippine elections and accusing the Philippines of fabricating issues and fostering Sinophobia.
The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) has launched a probe led by its Intelligence Division to investigate these allegations and build a case for possible charges.
The NBI's investigation was prompted by the National Security Council's request for the Chinese embassy to explain payments made to the Makati-based firm.
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President Marcos has ordered a deeper probe into alleged Chinese interference in the upcoming May midterm elections following reports of Beijing's involvement.
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The Philippine Senate has summoned Makati-based InfinitUs Marketing Solutions, Inc. to a hearing on May 5 regarding allegations of a 2023 agreement with the Chinese embassy to conduct pro-Beijing social media campaigns, including deploying "keyboard warriors" or trolls.
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Senator Francis Tolentino accused the Chinese Embassy in Manila of funding a disinformation campaign in the Philippines through Infinitus Marketing Solutions Inc., allegedly hiring Filipino "keyboard warriors" to shape public opinion.
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A Chinese national, Tak Hoi Lao, was apprehended near the Commission on Elections (Comelec) main office in Manila with alleged spy devices, including an IMSI catcher, prompting the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) to file charges of espionage and violations of the Cybercrime Prevention Act.
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Senate Majority Leader Francis Tolentino suggested that Chinese diplomats could be expelled from the Philippines if the ongoing Senate investigation into foreign interference uncovers conclusive evidence of their involvement.
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