The Department of National Defense (DND) confirmed that six foreign nationals and two Filipinos are arrested in Subic’s Grande Island on March 19, for their alleged involvement in espionage and kidnapping.
A joint operation by authorities from the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), and the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) resulted in the arrest of five Chinese nationals, one Cambodian, and two Filipinos.
"The arrest exposes the unlawful nature, including suspected espionage and kidnapping activities related to Philippine Offshore Gaming Operations (POGO), for which some foreign nationals are using Grande Island under the guise of private enterprises," the DND said in a statement on Thursday.
"Such activities, which may be part of larger criminal network operations, pose a serious threat to our national security," the agency added.
During the operation, authorities recovered multiple cellphones and laptops, one 9mm caliber firearm, and 16 rounds of 9mm ammunition.
The individuals who were arrested are facing charges under Republic Act 8799, also known as the Securities Regulation Code, and Republic Act 10175, or the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012.
As a result, the DND aims to work closely with relevant agencies, such as the SBMA, to assess the possibility of designating Grande Island and nearby Chiquita Island as military reservations.
This move is expected to enhance the security of the Subic Special Economic Zone, including the Riviera Wharf and Subic Bay International Airport, while aligning with the ongoing development of the Philippine Navy's naval operating base.
Moreover, this initiative aims to strengthen and sustain the country's strategic presence along the western seaboard.
"Grande Island, located in Subic Bay, is a strategic vantage point with a clear view of key sea lanes in the West Philippine Sea, including Bajo de Masinloc (Scarborough Shoal)," said DND.
