Manila: Malaca±ang on Monday affirmed that President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s determination to hold accountable those involved in anomalous flood control projects remains steadfast.
According to Philippines News Agency, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro stated that the President's resolve to investigate and take action against the corruption in these projects will not diminish. This comes after Senate President Pro Tempore Panfilo Lacson emphasized the importance of maintaining momentum in pursuing the Independent Commission for Infrastructure's (ICI) objectives in addressing these anomalies.
Castro highlighted that significant progress has been made in just four months, with numerous individuals being held accountable. The President supports strengthening the ICI to further its efforts in tackling the misuse of public funds.
Lacson, on the other hand, praised the ICI for its role in uncovering valuable information that aids the Ombudsman and Department of Justice (DOJ) in building cases against those responsible for the misuse of public funds. Despite its limited powers, the ICI has complemented these agencies effectively.
Lacson expressed concern over reports suggesting that Malaca±ang's enthusiasm might be waning, referencing comments from Castro about the possible redundancy of creating an Independent People's Commission (IPC). Nonetheless, Lacson underscored the need for the IPC, as proposed in Senate Bill 1512, to succeed the ICI and provide more robust measures, including witness protection, to address infrastructure anomalies.
He noted that ICI head Andres Reyes Jr. had expressed concerns about witnesses facing potential counter-charges, stressing the importance of legislative support to empower the commission further. Lacson urged the House and Senate to pass the bill to enhance the ICI's effectiveness, suggesting that the President could certify the measure as urgent.
President Marcos initiated the ICI via Executive Order 94 on September 11, 2025, with a focus on investigating corruption, irregularities, and fund misappropriation in flood control and infrastructure projects over the past decade.
