Senator Lacson Files New Anti-Espionage Act
MANILA, Philippines — Senator Panfilo Lacson has introduced a bill that aims to modernize and strengthen the country’s outdated laws on espionage and national security offenses. The proposed New Anti-Espionage Act addresses significant gaps found in Commonwealth Act No. 616 and Article 117 of the Revised Penal Code.
Lacson highlighted that recent technological advances and the increasing involvement of foreign jurisdictions in the Philippines’ political and governmental affairs have exposed the urgent need to update these laws. “These shortcomings underscore the urgent need to amend and modernize these laws,” he said in a statement.
Expanding Protection Against Espionage Threats
The bill increases penalties for espionage-related offenses and broadens coverage to include modern technology and foreign interference. It particularly imposes stricter punishments on public officials, employees, and foreigners who engage in espionage or meddle with government affairs.
It introduces the extraterritorial application of the law, penalizing activities by foreign entities that interfere with the country’s political processes. The definition of espionage is expanded to include physical, electronic, cyber, or other methods that harm the Philippines or benefit foreign or domestic parties.
Additionally, the bill permits surveillance and interception of communications of suspects upon securing a court order from the Court of Appeals.
Harsher Penalties for Violators
Under the proposed legislation, those who conspire or engage in espionage and interference face life imprisonment without parole and fines ranging from five million to twenty million pesos. Government officials and employees found guilty face permanent disqualification from holding public office and the maximum penalty.
Foreign offenders will be deported immediately after serving their sentence and permanently barred from re-entering the country.
Rising Espionage Incidents Highlight Urgency
Lacson cited recent cases of alleged espionage, including arrests of individuals using solar-powered CCTV and drones to spy on military facilities in Palawan. From 2022 to 2024, the Philippine Navy recovered five underwater drones equipped with sensors that relay data via satellite communications.
“These incidents point to a larger, more concerning pattern – a deliberate and sophisticated use of modern tools to conduct espionage and interference—threats that may originate from both foreign and domestic sources,” Lacson said.
Strengthening Financial Investigations on Espionage
The bill also adds espionage and interference to the list of unlawful activities under the jurisdiction of the Anti-Money Laundering Council. This enables authorities to conduct financial investigations, freeze accounts, and seize assets related to espionage activities.
Local leaders noted that this law will help protect the country’s sovereignty against evolving security threats by updating outdated statutes and addressing new challenges posed by technology and foreign interference.
For more news and updates on national security, visit Filipinokami.com.