Manila: Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. has ordered heightened counter-intelligence operations across all police units and stronger coordination with security agencies amid reports of alleged espionage activities targeting individuals with access to sensitive government information. Nartatez said the directive forms part of a broader effort to prevent the reported recruitment of individuals who may have access to confidential government data.

According to Philippines News Agency, the directive comes amid reports from security agencies belonging to the Five Eyes intelligence alliance - composed of the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand - raising concerns over alleged Chinese operatives using online job platforms to recruit individuals with access to confidential and sensitive information. Potential targets include personnel from the defense sector, foreign affairs offices, intelligence units, and other key government agencies.

Nartatez emphasized the importance of tightening coordination with both local and international security agencies to shut down covert recruitment channels. The PNP chief urged government personnel and citizens to remain vigilant against emerging espionage threats.

The PNP's Anti-Cybercrime Group is collaborating with cyber intelligence experts to monitor, track, and counter possible online recruitment activities linked to espionage operations. Nartatez highlighted the significance of inter-agency cooperation for addressing the threat and ensuring timely investigation of related activities.