CIDG: 2 suspected Mendiola riot instigators face raps

MANILA, Philippines —  Two of the four people believed to be among those who instigated the Sept. 21 violent protests against corruption in Mendiola, Manila are facing charges for snubbing the subpoenas issued by the police Criminal Investigation and Detection Group.

CIDG spokesperson Maj. Helen de la Cruz said yesterday they are preparing complaints for indirect contempt against the two.

One of those summoned, Park Alamada Pangawilan, appeared at the CIDG on Monday and explained his side about a viral video of him asking the protesters if they have lighters with them.

Kabataan party-list Rep. Renee Co criticized the CIDG for allegedly harassing Kalayaan Kontra Korapsyon officer Aldrin Kitsune and Alyansa ng Kabataang Mamamahayag chairperson Jacob Baluyut through subpoenas.

Co said a student of the Polytechnic University of the Philippines was also summoned by the CIDG in connection with the unrest that marred the anti-corruption protests on Sept. 21.

De la Cruz, however, maintained that there is nothing irregular in the actions of the CIDG.

“Crimes and violations have been committed during the protests so an investigation is ongoing,” she said.