Marcos still doubtful over existence of ‘new model’ agreement

Marcos still doubtful over existence of ‘new model’ agreement

MANILA, Philippines —President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is still doubtful on whether “new model” agreement with China exists having seen no proof of it.

Marcos was asked about the recorded conversation between Chinese diplomats and the Armed Forces of the Philippines Western Command wherein the supposed new model was reached when it comes to the disputed West Philippine Sea.

READ: DOJ chief orders probe into alleged wiretapping of Chinese diplomats

“We’re looking into it. Because really the fact of the matter is, there have been mentions of a tape that says, that confirms that there was this agreement,” Marcos said in an ambush interview in Makati.

“I keep wanting to hear it. And as yet, we don’t have it. So it’s very hard to come to a conclusion until we know that the thing actually exists,” said Marcos.

Asked if the government plans to take extra precaution following the wiretapping incident, Marcos said it was the government’s policy to be cautious.

“The DICT (Department of Information and Communications) for example, together with DOST (Department of Science and Technology) are working hard together, together with our security services to make more robust our cybersecurity. We have spoken to many experts and we have taken some of the best people in cybersecurity are actually Filipino,” said Marcos.

The Department of Justice is already investigating the wiretapping incident.