Manila: The Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) has officially requested the Office of the Ombudsman to initiate criminal and administrative proceedings against eight current and former lawmakers implicated in a large-scale corruption scandal involving flood control projects. These individuals have been identified as having violated numerous ethical and legal standards by engaging in private business activities that conflict with their official responsibilities.
According to Philippines News Agency, ICI chair Andres Reyes has named the accused as former Representative Elizaldy Co of FS Co. Builders Supply, Representative Edwin Gardiola of Construction Workers Solidarity Party-list for Newington Builders, Inc., Lourel Development Corp., and S-Ang General Construction and Trading, Inc., Representative James Ang Jr. of Uswag Ilonggo Party-list for IBC International Builders Corp. and Allencon Development Corp., Representative Jernie Jett Nisay of Pusong Pinoy Party-list for JVN Construction and Trading, Bulacan 2nd District Representative Augustina Pancho for CM Pancho Construction, Inc., Cagayan 3rd District Representative Joseph Lara for JLL Pulsar Construction Corp., Surigao del Norte 1st District Representative Francisco Matugas for Boometrix Development Corp., and Tarlac 3rd District Representative Noel Rivera for Tarlac 3-G Construction and Development Corp.
The ICI has expressed that these officials seemingly breached the Code of Conduct for Government Officials and the Anti-Graft and Corruption Act, among other regulations. The Commission emphasized the importance of conducting a thorough investigation into these allegations. It was highlighted that lawmakers should refrain from engaging in private businesses that might conflict with their official duties, should not influence any bidding and awarding processes, and must not participate in or financially benefit from government contracts.
The ICI underscored the urgency of eradicating what it described as a long-standing abusive system that undermines public trust. The Commission vowed to continue unveiling names involved in the corruption scandal in the upcoming days, showcasing its commitment to accountability and transparency in governmental operations.
