People Surge spokesperson Mimi Doringo has raised concerns over possible foreign and political interference in the ongoing anomalous flood control investigation of the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI), following the recent visit of Michael Kelleher, Acting Deputy Chief of Mission of the U.S. Embassy.
In an interview with DZRH Stories: Pinoy Documentaries, Doringo criticized that recent foreign visits could be influencing the commission’s work, noting that the group suspects efforts to conceal the truth behind the probe.
“Noong tinayo ang independent commission para sa investigation na ‘yan may dumalaw nang taga-America, tao ng Amerikano, mga tipong ganyan. Kaya paano natin masasabi na nagiging pang-atin lang ‘yong imbestigasyon,” Doringo said.
“Hindi ito usapin ng politika. Ito ay usapin ng pagpapanagot doon sa pondong ninakaw sa taumbayan, kaya dapat ‘yong magiging resulta ng imbestigasyon ay sasagot doon sa panawagan ng taumbayan,” she added.
Doringo reiterated People Surge’s call to revamp the composition of the ICI, saying that leaders from various sectors — including the opposition — should be included to ensure fairness and independence.
“Mas maganda kung magiging well represented din ‘yong mga sectors. Kasi alam naman natin na hindi lahat sinasabi ng mga nasa kabilang panig ay talagang kayang maningil kasi mga may mga limitasyon ‘yong paniningil nila hanggang sa kanino lang tao, hindi nilalahat,” she said.
The group maintained that the ICI should focus on holding accountable those involved in the alleged misuse of public funds in flood control projects, and that the probe’s results must reflect the public’s demand for truth and justice.
Doringo also confirmed that no charges have been filed against People Surge members following a commotion with police last Friday near the ICI office.
She urged authorities to uphold civil rights amid rising tensions between law enforcers and protesters.
“Sana maintindihan ng kapulisan na may karapatan ang mamamayan na magpahayag. Alam naming napaguutusan lang sila, pero dapat alam din nila kung hanggang saan lang ang dapat nilang sundin,” she said.
People Surge continues to push for an independent and transparent investigation, insisting that the ICI must remain free from both foreign influence and political pressure.
