Iza Aldana
Aug 31, 2026
Defense chief flags possible Chinese backing as concerns over foreign influence and West Philippine Sea tensions grow
MANILA, Philippines — Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro Jr. said some Filipino politicians may be receiving support from China to promote narratives favorable to Beijing, particularly on the West Philippine Sea issue.
Teodoro said there are grounds for suspicion but acknowledged that there is not yet enough evidence to conclusively identify or implicate specific politicians.
He said authorities are working to determine whether financial or other forms of support are being provided, stressing that such activities could raise serious national security concerns.
The defense chief did not name any officials, as investigations and evidence-gathering efforts remain ongoing.