Metro Manila, Philippines – The fate of the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) is in limbo months after two commissioners resigned, leaving the body with only its chairman and a special adviser as it continues investigating alleged corruption in flood control projects.
The exits of former Public Works Secretary Rogelio “Babe” Singson and Commissioner Rossana Fajardo in December left the commission without a full complement of members, raising questions about whether it can fully carry out investigations and issue referrals.
Despite criticisms from local leaders and former lawmakers, Malacañang said President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. continues to trust the ICI.
“Sa ngayon po na andiyan po ang tiwala ng pangulo sa ICI, ang nais lang din po ay mapanagot ang lahat, walang sinisino, walang kinikilingan,” said Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro.
[Translation: For now, since the president’s trust in the ICI remains, the only goal is to hold everyone accountable, without favor and without exception.]
Castro the sentiment remains despite calls to abolish the body, and urged critics not to “preempt” the president’s future decision.
Special Adviser Rodolfo Azurin Jr., who works closely with the ICI, said the commission is limited in operations.
He said reports suggesting the commission may be abolished by Feb. 1 are unconfirmed, adding that new appointments are needed for the ICI to function fully.
Recommendations despite vacancies
In a Palace briefing, Castro said the one-member setup does not affect the commission’s ability to recommend cases.
“Kahit sino nga po ay puwedeng magbigay ng anumang rekomendasyon sa ombudsman,” Castro said.
[Translation: Anyone can submit a recommendation to the ombudsman.]
“So, kahit po nag-iisa ang isang Justice Reyes, kung ito naman po ay may sapat na ebidensiya, hindi naman ito hadlang para sila po ay mag-rekomenda ng pagsasampa ng kaso,” she added.
[Translation: So even if Justice Reyes is alone, if there is sufficient evidence, that is not an obstacle to recommending the filing of cases.]
Castro said the work of Singson and Fajardo had been completed, and what remains is the collation and compilation of evidence for referral to the Department of Justice and the ombudsman.
The official said while a full commission complement is ideal, the current setup is not a barrier to fulfilling its mandate.
“Hindi ibig sabihin niyan na kahit nag-iisa ay hindi makakapag-function,” she said.
[Translation: That does not mean that even if there is only one member, the commission cannot function.]
Marcos created the ICI in September through Executive Order 94 to look into flood control allegations in the past decade.
