Quezon city: The proposed Independent Commission Against Infrastructure Corruption (ICAIC) is distinct from the Office of the Ombudsman (OMB) and does not replicate its functions, asserted Mamamayang Liberal Party-list Representative Leila de Lima at the Saturday News Forum.

According to Philippines News Agency, de Lima clarified that the ICAIC's establishment is not intended to overlap with existing agencies. She emphasized that the bill explicitly states it will not impair or interfere with the mandates of agencies like the OMB and the Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC). The ICAIC, once established through House Bill No. 4453, will specifically target irregularities in flood control projects.

De Lima highlighted the focused and enhanced authority of the ICAIC regarding infrastructure-related issues. She pointed out the broad remit of the Ombudsman, which encompasses all anti-graft and corruption cases, as well as violations of ethical conduct laws. Given this extensive scope, de Lima argued that an independent commission would be instrumental in providing necessary assistance to the Ombudsman.

The new commission might incorporate the Independent Commission on Infrastructure (ICI) and could be named either the Independent People's Commission (IPC) or the ICAIC, depending on the adopted version. The commission will consist of five members, with leadership potentially drawn from retired justices of the Supreme Court, Court of Appeals, Court of Tax Appeals, or Sandiganbayan. De Lima noted the limited number of retired Supreme Court justices as a factor in broadening the eligibility for leadership.

The House version of the bill stipulates that the ICAIC's term will extend until December 31, 2028, unless an extension is deemed necessary. Conversely, the Senate's proposal suggests the IPC should remain active until June 30 or July 1, 2028, with the possibility of extension by Congress.