Senators call for probe into alleged Chinese election interference

Several senators on Friday expressed concern over alleged Chinese interference in the upcoming May 12 midterm elections, calling for a thorough investigation to protect national sovereignty.

Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Estrada emphasized that any potential security threats and foreign interference in the midterm polls 'constitute a serious affront to our national sovereignty and the integrity of our electoral system.'

Estrada urged Filipinos to be vigilant about candidates' backgrounds, citing the case of dismissed Bamban Mayor Alice Guo who won an electoral position despite questions on her citizenship.

Senator Risa Hontiveros echoed the call for urgent action, urging relevant agencies like the National Security Council (NSC), National Intelligence Coordinating Agency (NICA), and Commission on Elections (COMELEC) to investigate further and hold accountable those involved in election interference.

Hontiveros also pushed for the passage of a proposed Foreign Interference Act to address ongoing and future election threats, urging Malacañang to summon the Chinese ambassador amid these reports.

Senator Joel Villanueva highlighted the need for comprehensive threat assessments and effective countermeasures to safeguard the integrity of elections, stressing that foreign interference is an affront to democracy.