(UPDATE) LOCAL Indian groups on Tuesday defended businessman Manjinder Kumar after he was linked to allegedly leaked documents from the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA).
In a manifesto, the groups attested to Kumar's integrity and cited his contribution to the Filipino and Indian communities.
"Mr. Kumar has been an integral part of our community, demonstrating dedication to philanthropy, ethical business practices, and community development," the manifesto said.
The Indian community called for a "fair and just resolution [of the controversy]" and cited the need to "protect those who dedicate their lives to the betterment of society."
"Character assassinations such as these not only harm the individuals targeted but also discourage others from engaging in philanthropic and community work," the groups said.
Sen. Ronald de la Rosa, chairman of the Senate Committee on Public Order and Dangerous Drugs, has conducted a series of hearings on leaked documents prepared by former PDEA agent Jonathan Morales.
Morales claimed that the document showed that high-profile individuals were being monitored for drug use, including then-senator and now-President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and actress Maricel Soriano. PDEA officials, however, denied the existence of such a document.
Former National Police Commission agent Eric Santiago said Kumar and a certain "Lam" were involved in the alleged leak, but he later admitted fabricating the information to gain the Senate's attention so that he would be invited to the hearing.
Kumar has denied any involvement in the issue.
"I do not know former PDEA agent Morales, nor was I aware of the issue he is involved in and the subject of the Senate inquiry. The claim itself is unbelievable, and any logical person would see the absurdity of the claim," he said.
"Through the Filipino Indian Commerce and Welfare Society Inc., Mr. Kumar has provided full scholarships to underprivileged students, enabling them to pursue their education and secure better futures," the Indian groups said.
They said that during the Covid-19 pandemic, Kumar supported frontliners by providing essential supplies and protective equipment, ensuring their safety while they risked their lives for others.
They also cited Kumar's dedication to "sustainable livelihoods through initiatives for microfinance and vocational training to support individuals who lost employment due to the pandemic."
"His efforts have empowered many, giving them the means to improve their lives and contribute to the economy," they added.
Among the groups that signed the manifesto were Guru Nanak Indian Sikh Temple in Dagupan; Radha Krishna Temple Inc. and Gurdwara Gur Shabad Parkash in Urdaneta, Pangasinan; Khalsa Diwan Inc. in Paco, Manila; Guru Teg Bahadur Indian Sikh Temple Inc. in Batangas City; Shri Guru Nanak Dev Sikh Temple Inc. in Biñan City, Laguna; Guru Nanak Sat Sai Baba Temple in Dasmariñas, Cavite; Sat Kartar Indian Sikh Temple in San Pablo City; and Gurudwara Jagat Sudhar Indian Sikh Temple in Santiago City.
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