The City Government of Manila invoked transparency in the 2022 donation of motorcycles from the Qiaoxing Volunteer Group following a recent probe by the Philippine National Police (PNP).
PNP-Crime Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) led by Brig. Gen. Nicolas Torre III revealed on Saturday that an investigation is underway into the donation of motorcycles, reportedly linked to suspected Chinese spies.
The probe was launched after questions arose on donations coming from foreign entities and non-government organizations.
According to the local government, the donation was referred to the Office of the mayor in September 2022 by City Administrator Bernardito Ang.
The City Legal Officer and the City General Services Office reviewed the deed of donation and confirmed that the motorcycles, provided by Sinski Motorcycle Philippines, were properly registered with the Land Transportation Office (LTO) before the turnover.
The donation included nine 2016 models and one 2015 model of Sinski motorcycles, valued at P14,500 each, for a total of P145,000.
The motorcycles were intended for use by the Manila Police District.
The turnover ceremony in 2022 marked the only interaction between Manila Mayor Honey Lacuna-Pangan and Wang Yongyi, the leader of the Qiaoxing Volunteer Group.
The mayor said no cash donations were made and there have been no further engagements or contributions from the group since then.
The city government is currently verifying the operational status of the motorcycles.
The city of Manila added that it remains committed to transparency in all its dealings. (Diann Ivy Calucin)
