Amid rising tensions in the West Philippine Sea and concerns over foreign espionage threats, two new bills were filed to overhaul the Philippines’ espionage laws, penalizing peacetime spying and introducing tougher sanctions for offenders.
Cagayan de Oro City 2nd District Representative Rufus Rodriguez filed House Bill No. 10983 and House Bill No. 10988, seeking to amend outdated provisions in the Revised Penal Code and Commonwealth Act No. 616, respectively.
HB 10983 aims to prohibit espionage “in times of peace or in times of war,” while HB 10988 aims to implement stricter penalties for individuals engaged in espionage activities.
“We have to be wary of these Trojan horses, especially our compatriots who sell their souls and services to foreign interests,” Rodriguez said, emphasizing the risk of spy infiltration, citing the case of dismissed Bamban, Tarlac Mayor Alice Guo.
Rodriguez underscored the outdated nature of current espionage regulations, citing the need for laws that reflect modern security challenges, such as cybercrime and technological advancements in espionage.
“By enhancing penalties and updating definitions to align with contemporary security challenges, the legislation aims to bolster the Philippines’ ability to preserve and protect its national security interests,” he said.
Under HB 10983, individuals found unlawfully entering military sites to obtain confidential defense information would face prison correctional penalties ranging from six months and one day to six years, while stricter penalties would apply to public officers who disclose sensitive information to foreign representatives.
HB 10988 proposes even harsher consequences, with life imprisonment and fines ranging from ₱500,000 to ₱2 million for severe espionage offenses.
Meanwhile, Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. stressed the need to amend existing espionage laws, which currently apply only in times of war.
“What is important now is that we penalize espionage during times of peace,” Teodoro said, stressing the need to update legislation to address evolving security threats.
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