MANILA, Philippines — Malacañang expressed deep concern Friday over the National Security Council’s (NSC) report of Chinese interference in the 2025 Philippine elections.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has been informed about the matter, according to Palace Press Officer Undersecretary Atty. Claire Castro during a media briefing.
Castro said the administration will investigate the allegations and take the issue seriously due to its implications on national sovereignty and democratic integrity.
The Chinese government denied the report, saying it respects the internal affairs of other nations and has no interest in influencing Philippine politics.
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun reiterated in a Thursday press conference their long-standing policy of non-interference in domestic affairs of other countries.
At a Senate inquiry, NSC Assistant Director General Jonathan Malaya confirmed there were signs of Chinese state-sponsored efforts backing specific candidates in the polls.
Malaya said the information operations involved online activity designed to influence voter perceptions and possibly undermine the electoral process.
The administration’s Alyansa Para Sa Bagong Pilipinas coalition also raised concerns, calling the claims alarming and a threat to national security and democracy.
Campaign Manager Toby Tiangco said this issue transcends politics, emphasizing the need to defend the Filipino people’s right to choose freely and without foreign pressure.
Tiangco urged authorities to launch an immediate and thorough investigation and ensure accountability for anyone involved in the interference.
He stressed that protecting the credibility of the election process is essential to preserving the nation’s sovereignty and democratic values.