Chinese Embassy denies ‘sleeper cells’ in PH

(REUTERS/Thomas Peter/File Photo)

MANILA, Philippines — The Chinese Embassy on Friday denied the alleged existence of China’s “sleeper cells” in the Philippines. 

Sleeper cells are described as dormant groups waiting for orders to conduct “infiltration and intervention activities.”

“[We are] working with the Philippine law enforcement authorities to investigate the said case to jointly combat transnational criminal activities. We have also noted that the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) officer working on this case pointed out that there’s no truth that this is part of the plan of the Chinese to create a destabilization plot in the country,” said the Chinese Embassy in a statement. 

The embassy was pertaining to NBI’s October operation in Pasig that led to the arrest of two Chinese nationals who were in possession of high-powered firearms. 

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For the Chinese embassy, this was only an isolated case, but persons with ulterior motives “took advantage” of the situation and made baseless claims against China and Chinese people. 

“Certain Filipino officials went as far as disseminating such highly irresponsible remarks, dramatizing and hyping up maritime differences, vilifying the performance of normal duties and exchanges of Chinese institutions and personnel, and even inciting racial hatred and sowing Sinophobic sentiments. We strongly oppose and condemn such baseless allegations and malicious spreading of disinformation,” said the embassy. 

It likewise noted that China “has always adhered” to the principle of non-interference in internal affairs as they remain “dedicated to handling differences” through dialogue.

The embassy claimed that the accusations disrupt diplomatic efforts between the Philippines and China. 

“It is hoped that the Philippine side will work in the same direction with China and follow through on the consensus between the two heads of state so as to jointly safeguard our bilateral relations and maintain peace and stability in the South China Sea,” it added.