Senator Juan Miguel “Migz” Zubiri on Wednesday, August 27, called for a thorough inspection of all foreign-donated equipment, such as computers and CCTV cameras, warning they may contain spyware that could compromise national security.
During a Senate defense panel hearing on the proposed Anti-Espionage Act, Zubiri suggested including a provision to recall equipment donated by countries hostile to the Philippines.
He cited past donations of hundreds of computers from China to the PNP and DILG, which intelligence officials had previously flagged for replacement due to security risks.
Zubiri warned that even access to basic devices like phones and surveillance cameras could enable foreign spying, pointing out that visiting foreign officials often use burner phones due to the country’s weak cyber defenses.
He urged coordination with the DICT on cyber defense plans and said the Senate is willing to support intelligence agency budgets if there is transparency on how funds will be used to counter cyber and espionage threats.
Source: PhilNews24 | August 28, 2025
