Pro-China PH execs may be receiving ‘support,’ says Defense chief

Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. voiced suspicion Tuesday that some elected officials may be receiving financial backing from China to spread propaganda that undermines the country's claims in the South China Sea.

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We have some ground to perhaps suspect it, but credible information in respect to evidence is kind of hard to adduce.

Speaking at a congressional budget briefing, Teodoro acknowledged that authorities have grounds to suspect such arrangements but admitted that gathering credible evidence is challenging. He suggested that financial intelligence agencies are better positioned to investigate these matters, as they have access to bank records.

Teodoro, known for his critical stance on China's actions in the West Philippine Sea, had previously called for the resignation of government officials who appear to side with Beijing. His remarks have sparked a reaction from Davao City Rep. Paolo "Pulong" Duterte, who accused the defense secretary of unfairly targeting China.

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We do not have access to bank deposits [and] I think it is best addressed by financial authorities.

When asked about the specific type of support these officials might receive, Teodoro declined to elaborate, citing the possibility of ongoing law enforcement investigations. However, he maintained his belief that some pro-China politicians are indeed echoing Beijing's narratives, stating that their public statements speak for themselves.

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I believe there are some, undeniably; that the pronouncements speak for themselves.