Philippines' Law Enforcement Illegally Detains Nine Chinese Nationals; Chinese Embassy Responds to Media Questions

On July 14, 2025, the Philippine National Bureau of Investigation's Special Task Force (NBI-STF) was reported to have illegally detained nine Chinese nationals in Malolos City, Bulacan Province. The incident has sparked significant concern from the Chinese Embassy in the Philippines, which has taken immediate action to address the situation and ensure the rights of the affected individuals are protected.

In response to questions from the media, the Chinese Embassy confirmed that it has been closely following the developments and has already dispatched personnel to conduct consular visits to the nine detained individuals. The Embassy has urged the Philippine authorities to handle the case in accordance with the law, ensure the safety and legal rights of the Chinese citizens, and provide timely updates to the Embassy.

The Embassy also expressed particular concern for the welfare of the minor Chinese nationals involved, as their parents were detained, leaving them in a precarious living situation. In response, the Embassy has provided ongoing support and assistance to these vulnerable individuals.

It is currently reported that all nine Chinese nationals have been released, but the legal procedures surrounding the case are still ongoing. The Philippine law enforcement authorities have publicly acknowledged that the operation was conducted in violation of procedures. In light of this, the Chinese Embassy has requested further discussions with the Philippine side to ensure that the case is resolved in a timely and proper manner, including the return of confiscated documents and property.

The Embassy has also called on Philippine authorities to conduct a thorough investigation into the incident, clarify the facts, and disclose the progress of accountability. It emphasized the importance of preventing arbitrary or unlawful law enforcement actions in the future and ensuring a safe, fair, and non-discriminatory environment for Chinese citizens living and working in the Philippines.

This incident highlights the ongoing challenges of cross-border legal cooperation and the need for mutual respect and understanding between countries. As such, the Chinese Embassy continues to monitor the situation closely and will take appropriate measures to safeguard the interests of its nationals abroad.