Justice Sec Remulla orders NBI to probe illegal acts by foreign diplomats, including Chinese disinfo on Ayungin Shoal

Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla has directed the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) to investigate reported illegal activities by foreign diplomats, including disinformation allegedly committed by Chinese envoys regarding high-level communications on Second Thomas Shoal in the South China Sea.

The directive came after reports that the Chinese Embassy released alleged transcripts and recordings of a conversation between a Philippine military official and a Chinese diplomat regarding the disputed Ayungin Shoal.

Remulla emphasized that while diplomats enjoy certain privileges, they must also respect local laws and regulations, stressing that diplomatic immunity should not be used to shield individuals from legal consequences.

The Justice Secretary vowed to take appropriate actions if any violations of the law are confirmed, noting that diplomatic immunity is only applicable for official acts performed in their capacity as representatives of a foreign state.

Meanwhile, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has accused China of destroying the environment through reclamation activities at Sabina Shoal in the South China Sea, with findings supported by concrete evidence.