Camarines Norte Governor Ricarte Padilla raised concerns about national security after 11 Chinese nationals were arrested at a mining facility in Paracale, owned by a local councilor.
Padilla revealed that a months-long investigation by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) found the Chinese had been illegally staying in the province for over six months, possibly conducting activities that threatened security.
The governor warned that their presence could be part of a larger pattern of Chinese involvement in mining across the Philippines.
Authorities uncovered machinery and a large speedboat, further heightening concerns. The national government has since intervened, and investigations are ongoing.
Source: PhilNews24 | October 17, 2024
