According to Singapore’s primary Chinese language newspaper Lianhe Zaobao, the Philippine National Bureau of Investigation has arrested six foreigners in Subic Bay in the central and western Luzon on suspicion of espionage. These foreigners were disguised as fishermen and used high-tech drones to monitor the movements of the Philippine Navy and the U.S. military.
The Bureau arrested seven people (six foreigners and one Filipino) on Grande Island, Subic Bay, on March 19. Grand Island is a strategic location. The Bureau has been monitoring the island since last year and has discovered the above suspects through investigation and witness information. During the arrest operation, many photos and video materials including U.S. warships, naval combat bases and cargo ships were found, and a note in Chinese was also found that recorded information on the ships entering and leaving Subic Bay. The Filipino who was arrested is believed to be a bodyguard hired by the foreigners.
Subic Bay is close to the South China Sea and was once the largest overseas military base of the U.S. military. Manila is considering demarcating Grande Island and nearby Chiquita as a military reserve.
Source: Lianhe Zaobao, March 27, 2025
https://www.zaobao.com.sg/news/sea/story20250327-6080144