MANILA, Philippines –During a Senate panel hearing on Philippine offshore gaming operators (Pogos) on Tuesday, Senator Risa Hontiveros alleged that Michael Yang, a former economic adviser to ex-President Rodrigo Duterte, is involved with Chinese intelligence operations in the Philippines.
Hontiveros presented a photograph that featured Yang in the company of She Zhijiang, who has openly admitted to being a spy. This revelation was made during the final session conducted by the Senate panel on women. The panel examined various issues surrounding Pogos, including accusations of espionage and their implications for national security.
The senator highlighted the potential risk posed by foreign entities exploiting the gaming industry for intelligence activities. In her remarks, Hontiveros underscored the need for stringent measures to safeguard Philippine sovereignty. She clarified that her statement aimed to alert authorities and the public about possible security threats.
The photograph of Yang and She Zhijiang has drawn significant attention from legislators and the media. She Zhijiang’s involvement in espionage raises questions about Yang’s role and connections. Efforts to reach Yang for comments have so far been unsuccessful, with his representatives yet to provide an official response.
Yang’s connections within the Philippine government and business sectors have previously sparked controversy. His business dealings and influence during Duterte’s administration have been subjects of scrutiny. The allegations of Yang’s involvement with Chinese intelligence could potentially escalate tensions between the Philippines and China.
Senator Hontiveros has called for a thorough investigation into the matter. She pushed for measures to address the possible infiltration of foreign intelligence operatives in the gaming industry. The senator expressed concern over the security implications and called for a bipartisan approach to address the issue.
The Senate panel on women has been actively investigating Pogos, focusing on their regulatory compliance and potential security risks. The session revealed various concerns, including the possibility of Pogos serving as fronts for intelligence operations. Lawmakers have raised questions about the level of oversight and the effectiveness of current regulations.
National security experts have weighed in on the allegations, emphasizing the importance of vigilance. They urged the government to take proactive steps to protect national interests. The experts highlighted the need for collaboration between government agencies and the private sector to ensure the integrity of the gaming industry.
In response to the allegations, the Senate panel plans to conduct further investigations. Lawmakers intend to explore the extent of foreign influence within the gaming sector and its impact on national security. The inquiry aims to identify loopholes in existing regulations and strengthen measures to prevent espionage activities.
The situation has sparked discussions among government officials, prompting calls for comprehensive reviews of foreign engagements in sensitive industries. The implications of the allegations extend beyond the gaming industry, as they bring to light broader concerns about foreign interference in domestic affairs.
The Philippine government has yet to issue an official statement regarding the matter. Political analysts are closely monitoring the developments, speculating on their potential impact on diplomatic relations. The allegations against Yang and his purported connection to Chinese intelligence add a complex layer to the existing geopolitical dynamics.