Manila:<Text>

The National Security Council (NSC) on Wednesday night confirmed media reports that Philippine authorities have uncovered a "serious national security matter" regarding the alleged involvement of Filipino nationals in "espionage and foreign-directed malign activities" linked to the People's Republic of China. The Council assured the public that the "operation of these individuals acting on the behest of Chinese Intelligence has been addressed and terminated."

According to Philippines News Agency, the NSC did not provide additional details regarding how these illegal activities were uncovered and addressed for security reasons. The Council stated, "For reasons of national security, we cannot discuss identities, methods, or timelines so as not to jeopardize ongoing operations. Nonetheless, necessary actions have been taken against the individuals concerned -- all Filipino nationals -- who have all confessed their complicity in espionage activities and are cooperati ng with authorities."

The NSC emphasized that the arrest of these individuals was a result of joint operations by various national government agencies under the Insider Threat Program. This program seeks to protect national security sensitive information, capabilities, and operations from foreign espionage, turn/coercion, and malicious or negligent compromise. The NSC mentioned that this program covers government agencies handling sensitive information.

The Council assured the public that safeguards are in place and functioning effectively, with security agencies remaining proactive and vigilant, leading to the success of Philippine counterintelligence operations. Furthermore, the NSC appealed to Congress to prioritize the approval of two new pieces of legislation aimed at strengthening the country's ability to protect its sovereignty, democratic institutions, and security from covert or deceptive foreign state activities.

These legislative measures includ e the new Anti-Espionage Bill, intended to replace Commonwealth Act 616 from the American period, and the Anti-Foreign Malign Influence and Interference Act. The NSC indicated that, when passed into law, these measures would enhance the government's investigative powers, allowing for the prevention and disruption of hostile operations and networks, and the protection of sensitive information and critical infrastructure.