Manila: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. announced the establishment of a three-member commission with extensive powers to investigate irregularities in flood control projects. This commission will have the authority to summon government agencies and recommend charges if necessary.
According to Philippines News Agency, the President emphasized that the commission will operate independently from the government and will consist of a lawyer, an investigator, and a forensic accountant. The commission is tasked with thoroughly examining the projects to uncover any malpractices. “They are completely separate from government. We will give them all the powers that are necessary for them to come to a conclusion, to come for some findings. Para alam natin kung anong nangyari (So we will know what happened),” Marcos stated in his podcast aired on Sunday.
The President reiterated the importance of accountability, asserting that no individual is above the interests of the Filipino people. “Nobody is more important than Filipinos. Nobody. Not one person is more important,” he declared, ensuring that the investigation will proceed without bias or favoritism.
The findings of the commission may be forwarded to the Department of Justice or the Office of the Ombudsman for further action. Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin indicated that the executive order to create this independent body is awaiting the President’s signature, marking a significant step in addressing potential corruption in flood control projects.
