Manila: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has established an independent fact-finding body, the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI), to probe alleged irregularities in government flood control and other infrastructure projects, highlighting concerns over public safety and trust.
According to Philippines News Agency, the commission was created through Executive Order (EO) 94, which was signed and made public on Thursday. The ICI will consist of a chairperson and two members known for their competence and integrity, supported by an executive director with the rank of undersecretary and a full secretariat for technical and administrative tasks. The commission may also enlist experts and professionals as advisers or consultants to aid its investigations.
Malaca±ang has announced that the President will reveal the members of the commission shortly after the publication of the EO. President Marcos emphasized the administration's commitment to maintaining honesty and integrity in public service and to holding accountable those who engage in corrupt practices that undermine national interests and betray public trust.
The ICI is tasked with investigating anomalies, misuse of funds, and potential corruption in government projects, particularly focusing on flood control works from the past decade. It has the power to issue subpoenas, compel document production, and recommend criminal, civil, and administrative cases to relevant authorities. The commission can also recommend asset freezes, hold departure orders, and preventive suspensions to ensure the integrity of investigations.
Flood control projects, which receive significant annual funding, have been flagged for corruption due to delays, substandard construction, and alleged fund misuse, despite their critical role in disaster mitigation. The ICI will provide monthly reports to the Office of the President and publish its findings. It will continue to operate until its mandate is fulfilled or the President dissolves it.
Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez expressed full support for the President's decisive action in signing Executive Order No. 94, emphasizing the shared resolve to confront irregularities and strengthen public trust. Romualdez assured that if the investigation finds collusion between House members and public works officials, the House will not shelter corruption. He emphasized the importance of due process in protecting the innocent and holding the guilty accountable.
The House Infrastructure Committee has also expressed its eagerness to collaborate with the ICI. Bicol Saro Party-list Rep. Terry Ridon, co-chair of the committee, stated their commitment to working with the commission to ensure truth and accountability, protect public funds, and bring those responsible for anomalous projects to justice.
