Manila: The Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) will continue its operations while President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. reviews its 125-day accomplishment report, Malaca±ang announced Friday. In a press briefing, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro emphasized that President Marcos is meticulously examining the ICI's findings before making a decision regarding the future of the commission, which is responsible for probing irregularities in flood control projects.
According to Philippines News Agency, the ICI has already submitted its report, and the President's decision on whether the commission should persist with its operations is pending. Castro explained, "Sila ay nag-submit na ng kanilang report. Kung ano po ang magiging desisyon po ng Pangulo dito kung dapat po bang ituloy o hindi, kung dapat silang magpatuloy sa pagtatrabaho, hintayin na lamang po natin ang magiging anunsyo ng Pangulo (They have submitted their report. As for the President's decision on whether or not they should continue working, let's just wait for the President's announcement)."
Castro reassured that there is no halt in the ICI's activities for the time being, indicating, "Pero sa ngayon po, wala pong pagpipigil. Patuloy pa rin po ang pagta-trabaho ng ICI (But for now, there is no stopping. ICI's work continues)." This statement was made in light of ICI chairperson Andres Reyes Jr.'s comments on Thursday, where he asserted the commission's determination to "fight to the very end, if allowed," to ensure accountability for those implicated in the flood control controversy.
The ICI's report, covering its undertakings and accomplishments from September 15, 2025, to January 18, 2026, is pivotal for President Marcos' forthcoming decision. The report outlines the commission's investigative efforts into dubious flood control projects, which will influence whether it continues to function or potentially faces dissolution.
The ICI has made significant strides, including filing nine referrals with the Office of the Ombudsman, coordinating the referral of 66 individuals to the Department of Justice, and aiding in the freezing of 6,692 bank accounts, collectively estimated at PHP24.7 billion.
