Lacson warns vs ‘homegrown traitors’ amid West Philippine Sea disputeMANILA, Philippines — Senate President Pro Tempore Panfilo Lacson yesterday raised the possibility of homegrown traitors operating within the Philippine government, warning that foreign powers often utilize “recruitment in place” to infiltrate rival nations and shape local narratives. The senator issued the statement when asked if Filipino officials and social media personalities echoing Beijing’s propaganda on the West Philippine Sea could be considered traitors. Lacson described these individuals as vulnerable targets who are willing to sell out their country for personal gain. Lacson warned that failing to challenge Chinese incursions near Pag-asa would be tantamount to allowing an invasion of inhabited Philippine territory. 1625, or the “West Philippine Sea (WPS) Education Act,” citing a widespread lack of knowledge about the country’s maritime rights.

Source: Philippine Star February 08, 2026 16:32 UTC