Senator Hontiveros links Michael Yang to Chinese intelligence operations in the Philippines

Senator Risa Hontiveros has identified Michael Yang, a former economic adviser to President Rodrigo Duterte, as a key figure in Chinese intelligence operations in the Philippines. This claim was made during a Senate hearing on Philippine offshore gaming operators (Pogos), which Hontiveros described as involved in serious crimes. Hontiveros presented evidence, including a photo of Yang with She Zhijiang, a self-confessed spy. She alleged that Yang is linked to various illegal activities, including human trafficking and drug operations, and highlighted concerns about Chinese propaganda in the country. Additionally, Hontiveros raised alarms about potential disinformation campaigns linked to Pogos, suggesting they may be used to manipulate public opinion. She expressed concern that these operations could also target critics of the gaming industry.