Philippines probes alleged Chinese interference in elections

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has ordered an immediate and thorough investigation into allegations of Chinese interference in the country's upcoming midterm elections, following warnings from the National Security Council about possible Chinese state-sponsored information operations. Senators and national security officials expressed alarm, citing evidence that the Chinese embassy may have paid a local marketing firm to run online 'troll farm' operations aimed at spreading pro-Beijing narratives and disinformation. The accusations, which come amid heightened tensions between the Philippines and China over South China Sea disputes, have been strongly denied by China's foreign ministry, which reiterated its policy of non-interference. Filipino lawmakers emphasized that any foreign meddling in the electoral process is a serious threat to national sovereignty and democracy, calling for accountability for anyone found colluding with foreign powers. Civil society groups also condemned any attempts at manipulation, framing the issue as both a political and national security concern. Investigations are ongoing, with the Palace deferring further details to the National Security Council.