Philippine authorities have arrested three defense personnel accused of spying for China, a case described by the National Security Council (NSC) as a “serious national security matter.” The suspects allegedly leaked sensitive military information, including South China Sea operations, to Chinese handlers.

MANILA, Philippines — The National Security Council confirmed on Thursday that three members of the Philippine defense establishment were apprehended for allegedly engaging in espionage activities on behalf of China. The arrests involved personnel from the Department of Defense, the Philippine Navy, and the Coast Guard, marking one of the most significant security breaches in recent years.

NSC spokesperson Cornelio Valencia told Agence France-Presse, “There was co-optation over a period of time.” He explained that the suspects provided their Chinese contacts with lists of military personnel and operational details about resupply missions in the contested South China Sea.

The South China Sea has long been a flashpoint between Manila and Beijing, with tensions escalating over territorial disputes and maritime operations. The leaked information reportedly included logistical details that could compromise Philippine resupply missions to outposts in contested waters.

Valencia emphasized that the espionage case is being treated with utmost seriousness, noting that the suspects had been under surveillance before their arrest. “This is a serious national security matter,” he said, underscoring the gravity of the breach.

The NSC revealed that the three individuals have confessed to gathering and transmitting sensitive data. Malacañang has since issued a warning to all government officials and personnel to remain vigilant in safeguarding classified information, stressing that breaches of this nature could undermine national defense.

The arrests come at a time when the Philippines has been strengthening its defense ties with allies such as the United States and Japan, amid growing concerns over Chinese activities in the region. Analysts say the incident highlights the vulnerability of military institutions to infiltration and the importance of counterintelligence measures.

Investigations are ongoing, and authorities have not yet disclosed whether additional personnel may be implicated. The NSC has assured the public that measures are being taken to prevent similar breaches in the future.

This case underscores the delicate balance of regional security in Southeast Asia, where espionage and intelligence operations are increasingly shaping the dynamics of territorial disputes.