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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Chinese Embassy 'shocked, concerned' over 'spy' tag by US Embassy staff in traffic row

Chinese Embassy 'shocked, concerned' over 'spy' tag by US Embassy staff in traffic row

Published Feb 8, 2025 08:15 am

The Chinese Embassy in Manila was “shocked” and “concerned” about a remark by a United States Embassy staff that “Chinese spies” could get ahold of his information during an altercation with traffic enforcers.

US_China.webpThe American and Chinese flags displayed at Genting Snow Park ahead of the 2022 Winter Olympics on Feb. 2, 2022 in Zhangjiakou, China. (AP/Kiichiro Sato)

The embassy staff, whose American driver used the EDSA busway along Ortigas Avenue, alleged that the traffic enforcer could sell his information to “Chinese spies” after the latter attempted to take a photo of his passport in lieu of a license that the American driver did not have.

“We have noted reports of the incident and are deeply shocked and concerned about the relevant baseless accusations against China and the so-called "Chinese spy" narrative,” the embassy said in a statement.

A video footage from the Department of Transportation-Special Action and Intelligence Committee for Transportation (DOTr-SAICT) showed a Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV) with diplomatic plates from the American Embassy passing the busway on Ortigas Avenue.

When the American driver failed to present a valid license and instead showed a passport, another American from the vehicle challenged the photo-taking of the passport, saying that it was illegal and that the enforcer “could sell the picture of the passport to the Chinese spies.”

The US Embassy in Manila has since confirmed that the passenger was a member of its diplomatic team here.

“The US Embassy instructs all staff to obey Philippine laws, including traffic regulations,” it added.

The Chinese Embassy in Manila, meanwhile, asked for an investigation into the traffic row, and urged Philippine government to release the results.

“We would like to learn the final results of the investigation by PH law enforcement authority,” the statement added.

Only the convoys of the President, Vice President, Senate President, House Speaker, and Chief Justice are allowed to use the EDSA Busway. On-duty ambulances, fire trucks, and police cars are also allowed.

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CHINESE EMBASSY IN MANILA US EMBASSY IN MANILA EDSA Busway
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