Lawmakers seek raps vs firm tagged in China trolling
Metro Manila, Philippines - House lawmakers are urging the government to file charges against a local marketing solutions company allegedly contracted by China to boost its narrative on the West Philippine Sea, if proven to have violated the law.
In separate statements on Friday, April 25, Cagayan de Oro City Rep. Rufus Rodriguez and Zambales Rep. Jay Khonghun said the Department of Justice (DOJ) should investigate the company.
“The DOJ and the National Bureau of Investigation should file charges for treason and other violations of the Revised Penal Code and the National Security Act against (the company’s) officers and directors,” Rodriguez said, adding that Chinese embassy officers who dealt with the firm should be charged as “principals by direct participation.”
“There must be a violation somewhere in our laws for a Filipino company or a firm operating in our country that works against our national interest,” Khonghun said, calling on the public to not vote for pro-China candidates.
In a Senate hearing, Senator Francis Tolentino revealed that China has operationalized troll farms online, through the local firm running “keyboard warriors,” to promote its narrative in the West Philippine Sea.
NewsWatch Plus could not independently confirm if the company is registered in the country. The firm has yet to step out and issue a statement.
Senators also learned that China made efforts to influence Philippine elections. But Beijing has denied it.
Despite a 2016 arbitral court ruling favoring the Philippines’ rights in the West Philippine Sea or exclusive economic zone, China continues its intrusion in the contested area and refused to recognize the decision.
