Upon questioning by Surigao del Norte Rep. Robert Ace Barbers, Gavan revealed that 36 Chinese “aliens” – not Filipino-Chinese – had volunteered and were accepted as part of the PCG Auxiliary , raising concerns from the lawmakers about their intentions in doing so.MANILA, Philippines — Thirty-six Chinese nationals were recruited to become auxiliary members of the Philippine Coast Guard , but they have since been removed from the roster.
“I understand most of those recruits, who were Chinese, had the ranks of brigadier general, commandant, and they have overtaken the Coast Guard,” Barbers said.It is tasked to help the agency promote safety at sea. He, however, admitted that the Chinese nationals have been with the PCGA for around two to three years, some even longer. Barbers, in response to this, commented that the foreigners could “perhaps spying duties in the guise of being members of the auxiliary.”
“We are proceeding with this very carefully,” he said. “Rest assured that I will do my part as commandant of the Coast Guard to make sure that the Coast Guard is a national security relevant agency.”