A surge in disinformation and a coordinated cyberattack are targeting the Philippines as it prepares to host a major regional summit next year. The nation’s intelligence agency has observed a clear escalation in these threats, moving beyond theoretical concerns into active interference.
Lester Gastala, the director for cyberthreat operations at the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency, warned lawmakers that foreign actors are actively attempting to undermine Philippine institutions and manipulate public opinion. This interference isn’t limited to broad narratives; it’s becoming increasingly focused on specific events.
Specifically, disinformation campaigns related to the upcoming Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) summit are on the rise. These campaigns include “spear phishing” attacks – highly targeted attempts to breach government, defense, and diplomatic networks across the region.
The Philippines is slated to chair ASEAN in 2026, a position it intends to use to finally push for a long-delayed code of conduct in the South China Sea. This code aims to prevent conflict, but progress has been agonizingly slow for over two decades.
The South China Sea remains a critical flashpoint, with China asserting expansive claims despite a 2016 international tribunal ruling against them. This ongoing dispute fuels regional tensions and provides fertile ground for disinformation efforts.
Beyond cyberattacks, the Philippine military is also actively monitoring anti-graft protests for signs of foreign interference. Officials are concerned that legitimate domestic concerns are being exploited and potentially funded by external actors.
Rear Admiral Roy Vincent Trinidad revealed the armed forces are investigating “unusual” levels of support for protests related to flood control deals. The goal is to ensure these issues remain internal and are not influenced by outside funding or manipulation.
While not directly naming the country, Trinidad alluded to China, describing it as a powerful neighbor actively seeking to create division within the Philippines. He stated their strategy involves inciting conflict among Filipinos.
Philippine officials have already noted attempts to spread disinformation regarding the South China Sea dispute, aiming to sway public opinion. This highlights a broader pattern of information warfare targeting the nation.
The military acknowledges a growing infiltration of potentially harmful narratives within Philippine society. They emphasize the need to remain vigilant against these attempts to sow discord and undermine national unity.
Evidence suggests that foreign influence operations aren’t new. Earlier this year, allegations surfaced that a local marketing firm was hired to deploy “keyboard warriors” to promote pro-Beijing narratives ahead of recent elections.
This coordinated effort to shape public opinion underscores the complex and evolving nature of the threats facing the Philippines, as it navigates regional challenges and prepares for a prominent role on the international stage.
