Marcos orders deeper probe into alleged Chinese election meddling

President Marcos has ordered a deeper probe into alleged Chinese interference in the upcoming May midterm elections following reports of Beijing's involvement.

National Security Council (NSC) Assistant Director General Jonathan Malaya confirmed indications of operations influencing the elections and that narratives from Beijing are amplified by local proxies.

Malacañang stated that the President issued his directive after the NSC's revelation at the Senate, emphasizing the administration's intent to intensify a thorough investigation.

The President was made aware of the situation prior to his departure for the Vatican.

China, through its Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun, has denied influencing or interfering in the midterm elections, stating it adheres to the principle of non-interference.

Several senators have slammed China's alleged interference as a threat to national sovereignty and security.

Senator Francis Tolentino urged the Department of Foreign Affairs to summon China's envoy to the Philippines to explain the alleged interference.

Former Senator Panfilo "Ping" Lacson warned that the interference could be deeper, citing reports of Chinese nationals caught conducting surveillance around critical facilities.