Subic Bay Freeport – A joint enforcement operation conducted on March 19, 2025, by the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA), and the Naval Special Operations Group (NAVSOG) resulted in the arrest of eight individuals, including several foreign nationals, on Grande Island.
The operation, led by NBI Director Judge Jaime Santiago, culminated in the apprehension of six foreign nationals and two Filipinos. Among those arrested was Chinese national Qiu Feng, who was identified as Ye Tianwu, also known as Qing Feng. Ye Tianwu faces charges under Republic Act 8799, the Securities Regulation Code, and Republic Act 10175, the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012.
Also taken into custody were Chinese nationals Xu Xining, Ye Xiaocan, Su Anlong, and He Peng; Cambodian national Ang Deck/Dick; and Filipinos Melvin Mañosa Aguillon, Jr. and Jeffrey Espiridion, both reportedly employed by Ang Deck/Dick. Authorities seized multiple mobile phones, laptops, a 9mm caliber firearm, and 16 rounds of ammunition during the operation.
SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño commended the successful operation and emphasized that Subic Bay Freeport will never serve as a refuge for criminal elements.
The arrests shed light on the suspected involvement of foreign nationals in illegal activities such as espionage and kidnapping, allegedly linked to Philippine Offshore Gaming Operations (POGO). Authorities believe Grande Island is being exploited by criminal syndicates under the guise of legitimate business operations, posing a grave threat to national security.
The Department of National Defense (DND) confirmed the report, highlighting ongoing discussions with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and SBMA about designating Grande Island and nearby Chiquita Island as military reservations.
“This initiative aims to bolster the security of critical facilities within the Subic Special Economic Zone, including Riviera Wharf and Subic Bay International Airport, and supports the Philippine Navy’s efforts to enhance its strategic presence along the country’s western seaboard,” the DND said in a statement.