The Makabayan Coalition condemned the blatant US intervention in Philippine local affairs when US Embassy Acting Deputy Chief of Mission Michael Kelleher reportedly visited the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) office on October 17. The ICI is conducting an “investigation” into rampant government corruption related to flood control projects.

According to the ICI and Malacañang, the visit was a simple necessary “courtesy call” because the US is a Philippine “partner” in business interests. The coalition responded that this excuse only exposes the regime’s colonial dependence mindset.

The coalition also believes that the US intervention aims to mediate the conflict among traditional politicians, protect Marcos’ accountability from corruption, and prevent the ruling system’s destabilization that could lead to Marcos’ ouster. “Marcos still enjoys the support of the US,” it said.

Makabayan president Liza Maza stated that this US intervention is similar to past events in which investigations aligned its results with US political interests. “This is a clear violation of Philippine sovereignty and an attack on the Filipino people who seek accountability and justice,” she said.

Maza added that the right and authority to judge the Marcos regime’s corruption lies solely on the Filipino people, not foreigners. The coalition demanded the ICI to disclose its discussions with the US embassy official, and the imperialist power to cease its intervention in the Philippines.

The coalition urged the Filipino people to remain vigilant against external forces that meddle in national affairs. According to the coalition, the US must be closely monitored for it is not a neutral observer but a foreign power with a history of abuses and control over the Philippines.

“The fight against corruption must not be co-opted by the US and other powers that supported and enabled it,” Maza said.

Apart from the political coalition, Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (Bayan) also condemned US intervention. The group is among the militant forces leading the current anti-corruption movement against the US-Marcos regime in the country.