Cagayan de Oro: Cagayan de Oro 2nd District Representative Rufus Rodriguez has urged the Department of Justice (DOJ) to file treason and other criminal charges against the officers and board members of Infinitus Marketing Solutions, a Makati-based company reportedly engaged by China to operate online troll farms. Rodriguez made this call following a Senate hearing that exposed Infinitus's alleged role in promoting China's narrative on the West Philippine Sea dispute through digital campaigns.
According to Philippines News Agency, during a hearing of the Senate Special Committee on Maritime and Admiralty Zones, Senate Majority Leader Francis Tolentino presented evidence linking the Chinese Embassy in Manila to a covert online disinformation campaign. It was alleged that the embassy contracted a local marketing firm to fund troll farms aiming to discredit the Philippine administration and manipulate public opinion.
Tolentino highlighted that China's government, through its embassy, is allegedly compensating Filipino troll farms to oppose and malign the administration. He cautioned about Beijing's increasing involvement in "Malign, Influence, Foreign Interference" efforts, which include hacking vital government agencies. China's goal, he asserted, is not only to influence discussions but also to launch direct attacks on the government and further its agenda in the Philippines.
Rodriguez, known for his firm stance against China's actions in the West Philippine Sea, urged Tolentino to summon Infinitus officers and directors to provide clarity on their engagement with China. He expressed interest in identifying the social media influencers involved in promoting false narratives against the national interest.
In a related development, House Deputy Majority Leader Jude Acidre suggested seeking assistance from the diplomatic community to curb Chinese interference in the upcoming May 12 elections. Acidre emphasized the necessity of diplomatic channels in addressing Beijing's alleged electoral influence attempts, which aim to secure favorable policies in the Philippines.
Acidre condemned the practice of employing local companies to undermine national interests and warned of China's potential to replicate such actions elsewhere. He encouraged Filipino voters to reject candidates aligned with "Team China" and to support "Team Pilipinas," urging them to prioritize national integrity over foreign influence.
