A Mongolian man studying civil aviation in the Philippines has been arrested for allegedly conducting aerial photography in sensitive areas and concealing his military background, including holding a jet fighter flying training certificate from the People’s Liberation Army Air Force Aviation University. The man is now in custody of the Philippine Immigration Bureau, awaiting deportation.
The Philippine Immigration Bureau apprehended the 30-year-old Mongolian man in Iba, Zambales on February 12. He had enrolled in a local flight school but was discovered taking photos of Iba Airport and nearby rivers during flight training, raising national security concerns.
Preliminary investigations by the immigration bureau revealed that the man is suspected to have connections with the Chinese government and is qualified to pilot jet fighter aircraft. He has now been designated as an undesirable foreign national for engaging in activities not compliant with visa conditions.
Philippine National Security Advisor Eduardo Ano issued a statement on Tuesday, February 17, further elaborating that the man concealed his military background when coming to the Philippines for aviation training. This includes undergoing training at the People’s Liberation Army Air Force Aviation University and obtaining a jet fighter flying certificate.
Ano emphasized that the Philippines has always welcomed foreign students and aviation trainees with openness and friendliness, but transparency and strict adherence to laws and regulations are non-negotiable. Any actions jeopardizing national security will be dealt with in accordance with the law.
The Philippine National Security Council urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious national security threats, such as individuals flying in military-sensitive areas or providing false information about their identity or background, to the military, police, intelligence agencies, or local government immediately.
The man is currently in custody of the immigration bureau, awaiting deportation procedures.