Philippine Infrastructure Commission Denies U.S. Interference; Palace Says Embassy Visit Was Diplomatic

The Philippines’ Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) has denied reports that the United States interfered in its ongoing probe into alleged irregularities in government-funded infrastructure projects.

ICI Executive Director Atty. Brian Keith Hosaka clarified that the visit of U.S. Embassy Acting Deputy Chief of Mission Michael Kelleher last week was a routine diplomatic courtesy call, not an attempt to influence or participate in the investigation. He said the U.S. official simply sought to understand the commission’s mandate, recent achievements, and future plans, and that no confidential information was discussed.

The ICI stressed that the meeting was purely diplomatic, consistent with the standard protocol followed by foreign embassies in engaging with Philippine government agencies.

At the Palace, Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Undersecretary and Press Officer Atty. Claire Castro also confirmed that Kelleher’s visit was procedural and diplomatic. She said the meeting aimed to strengthen professional ties and transparency between the U.S. and the Philippines, and not to influence any ongoing investigation.

Both the ICI and the Palace emphasized that there was no U.S. interference in the commission’s work, underscoring that the investigation remains independent and guided solely by Philippine law.

Meanwhile, Hosaka revealed that the commission is requesting around 180 additional staff to accelerate its review of more than 238,000 infrastructure projects across the country. He described the task as “extensive and demanding,” noting that expanding the ICI’s workforce is vital to ensure accountability and efficiency in auditing public works.

The commission expects its organizational structure to be finalized soon, which will allow it to operate at full capacity and strengthen transparency in government infrastructure spending.