Manila: Senate Majority Leader Francis Tolentino has unveiled documents suggesting the Chinese Embassy in Manila engaged in a covert online disinformation campaign in the Philippines by allegedly hiring a local marketing firm. During a session of the Senate Special Committee on Maritime and Admiralty Zones, Tolentino presented evidence that the Chinese Embassy paid approximately PHP930,000 to Infinitus Marketing Solutions, a Philippine-based company, to establish and manage troll farms.

According to Philippines News Agency, these troll farms were reportedly tasked with disseminating disinformation, attacking Philippine government officials, and promoting pro-China narratives through fake social media profiles. Tolentino highlighted contract details and bank transfer records to support his claims. He also presented documents, including monthly reports allegedly submitted by Infinitus to the Chinese Embassy, showcasing troll posts, fake account names, and engagement metrics.

One report indicated that more than 50,000 Filipinos interacted with these fake accounts, some of which impersonated teachers, overseas Filipino workers, and community members. Tolentino condemned the actions, stating, "Ito pong kontrata at kabayarang ito ay pagyurak sa dignidad ng mga Pilipino (This contract and payment undermines Filipinos' dignity)."

The troll operations allegedly targeted President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., especially following the enactment of the Philippine Maritime Zones Law in November 2024. Tolentino also mentioned the recent discovery of a submersible drone near Barangay Inawaran, San Pascual, Masbate, as further evidence of China's intelligence-gathering activities.

"All of these incidents showed one thing and intention, which is to gather information about our people, about our armed forces, and about our defenses. That is why they (Chinese) are doing espionage," Tolentino asserted.