Manila: Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Estrada has called for the swift passage of a bill aimed at amending the Philippines' outdated espionage laws. This call to action follows recent reports of alleged Chinese spies being apprehended by authorities, highlighting the need for legislative updates.

According to Philippines News Agency, Senate Bill No. 2368, filed by Estrada in July 2023, seeks to update existing laws under Commonwealth Act No. 616 and the Revised Penal Code. The goal is to address the evolving threats posed by modern espionage methods and technologies. The proposed legislation seeks to expand the coverage of espionage and introduces harsher penalties, such as life imprisonment and heftier fines for those convicted of espionage.

Estrada emphasized the importance of modernizing and strengthening laws to address emerging threats to national sovereignty and security. In a statement, he stressed the need to submit additional critical information and data to the Senate Committee on National Defense and Security before presenting the committee report to the plenary. Estrada underscored the importance of balancing national security with constitutional rights.

Senate Deputy Minority Leader Risa Hontiveros also called for the immediate strengthening of the Anti-Espionage Law. Her call came in light of the arrest of a Chinese national accused of espionage and amid increasing tensions in the West Philippine Sea. The National Security Council echoed this sentiment, urging lawmakers to pass amendments that would impose tougher penalties on individuals involved in espionage activities.