The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Saturday reminded all foreign nationals that a visit clearance is required before entering military camps’ recreational facilities, including golf courses, amid heightened vigilance following recent espionage reports linked to China.
According to Luisito Santos’ report on dzBB Super Radyo, AFP officials said the clearance requirement is part of established policies for anyone seeking access to military installations.
Foreign nationals planning to use AFP camp facilities are urged to secure the proper visit clearance in advance and adhere to existing security requirements.
The AFP reminder comes against the backdrop of recent national security concerns after three Filipino nationals were detained for alleged espionage activities linked to Chinese actors, according to the National Security Council (NSC).
National security officials said the suspects, who worked in defense-related agencies, allegedly provided sensitive information — including details on military personnel and resupply missions in the contested South China Sea — to contacts tied to Chinese intelligence interests.
These developments have prompted tighter counterintelligence measures across government agencies, including the Philippine National Police, which announced stepped-up screening and internal monitoring to prevent foreign infiltration.
The AFP said that while current security protocols are sufficient, the evolving nature of espionage and foreign interference underscores the need for vigilance, particularly in areas where civilian access intersects with military installations.—MCG, GMA Integrated News
