Senators call for probe into China-linked PR firm

Senators Sherwin Gatchalian and Francis Tolentino are calling for a thorough investigation into the activities of InfinitUs Marketing Solutions, Inc., a Makati-based public relations firm accused of operating a China-backed troll farm.

Gatchalian urged the National Bureau of Investigation, Department of Justice, and National Security Council to conduct a full-scale investigation into IMSI's alleged involvement in spreading disinformation and treasonous activities.

Tolentino presented new documents during a Senate hearing on Monday that detail an alleged PHP930,000 contract between IMSI and the Chinese embassy for 'project publicity guidance', which he disputes as being used to procure Covid paraphernalia.

IMSI co-founder Paul Li acknowledged the authenticity of a check from the Chinese embassy but claimed it was used for Covid-19 supplies, a claim Tolentino dismissed as highly doubtful given the pandemic's declaration as over during that period.

Tolentino also noted multiple visits to China by IMSI officials and criticized the absence of some IMSI founders during the hearing, including Filipino co-founder Myka Poynton.

The senators' push for accountability underscores concerns over foreign interference in Philippine elections and national sovereignty.