Manila, April 25 -- Senators on Friday flagged alleged Chinese interference in the May 12 midterm elections as disclosed during a Senate hearing on Thursday and called for thorough investigation to protect the country's sovereignty.

In a statement, Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Estrada stressed the need for accountability amid growing concerns about foreign influence, pointing out that "although China has denied the accusations, our concerned government agencies must thoroughly investigate and hold accountable those attempting to influence our democratic process, whether they are foreign entities or local collaborators."

Estrada described foreign meddling in the polls as "a serious affront to our national sovereignty and the inte...