The Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) and officials from the Chinese Embassy in Manila have strengthened coordination efforts aimed at combating transnational crimes and improving cross-border security cooperation.
In a statement released Wednesday, the CIDG said Chinese Embassy Counselor and Police Attaché Zhao Lei paid a courtesy visit to CIDG headquarters at Camp Crame together with members of his delegation.
CIDG officials said the meeting focused on enhancing bilateral security ties, exchanging operational strategies, and deepening collaboration against international criminal activities.
“The institutional engagement focused on strengthening bilateral security partnerships, exchanging strategic operational insights, and fostering closer collaboration in combating transnational crimes,” the CIDG said.
The discussions also included an open forum and exchange of messages between both sides, capped by the presentation of commemorative tokens symbolizing continued cooperation and professional relations.
The CIDG assured foreign nationals residing in the country of continued protection while reaffirming its commitment to intensify operations against global criminal syndicates.
“Through global cooperation, Team CIDG remains committed to ensuring safer communities,” the agency said.
The meeting took place days after authorities conducted a high-profile raid on the Philippine Sanjia-Steel Corporation facility inside the PHIVIDEC Industrial Estate in Tagoloan, Misamis Oriental.
The operation involved the Philippine National Police, Armed Forces of the Philippines, and other government agencies and resulted in the arrest of 70 individuals, including 69 Chinese nationals.
Authorities accused the company, allegedly linked to businessman Tony Yang, brother of former presidential adviser Michael Yang, of handling potentially hazardous materials and violating several Philippine laws.
The arrested individuals are facing charges related to violations of the Philippine National Nuclear Energy Safety Act, immigration laws, the Labor Code, and the Consumer Act.
Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr., who visited the facility last weekend, described the raid as exposing “grave crimes committed against Filipinos” allegedly involving Chinese operators connected to the company.
Teodoro also announced a separate investigation into the oversight of the PHIVIDEC Industrial Authority and warned that authorities would pursue legal action against anyone attempting to obstruct the investigation.
“Again we warn all those who wish to intervene or meddle and frustrate the ends of justice, whether foreigners or otherwise of whatever affiliation, that serious legal efforts shall be taken against them,” Teodoro said.