Private citizen calls for ICI probe on links of first lady, Escudero's alleged bagman

Metro Manila, Philippines - The Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) – the body formed by the president to probe anomalous flood control deals, was asked to look at the links of First Lady Liza Araneta Marcos and businessman Maynard Ngu – the alleged bagman of former Senate President Chiz Escudero.

On Tuesday, Oct. 21, John Santander, a private citizen, submitted his letter of sentiment to the commission, saying that Ngu and Marcos’ possible links have not been explored.

In September, former Public Works Undersecretary Roberto Bernardo told a Senate inquiry that he personally delivered ₱160 million to Ngu, supposedly for Escudero. The lawmaker and his campaign donor and alleged bagman have been placed on a lookout order.

In a letter to ICI Chairman Andres Reyes, Santander presented two photos of Ngu and Marcos in public events, including the first lady’s attendance at a Cherry Mobile event founded by the tech billionaire. He also showed a photo of Marcos and Ngu in a wine bar.

He alleged that the seemingly close relationship of the two influenced Ngu’s appointment as special envoy to China for trade, investment, and tourism in 2023.

The private citizen also cited media reports, which said Ngu recommended appointments to the Palace based on lists allegedly provided by the First Lady to then Executive Secretary Vic Rodriguez, including the installment of Bernardo as DPWH senior undersecretary.

Santander called on the commission to invite Ngu and Marcos before the ICI to explain their ties.

He said the ICI should also recommend the filing of criminal cases against the two depending on evidence.

In an interview after filing his sentiment, Santander said he does not come from any group nor represent any political color.

“Hindi kami pro Marcos, hindi rin kami mga DDS (Duterte supporters), hindi rin kami Kakampink. Ito ay sarili naming pananaw bilang parte o bilang indibidwal na naninirahan sa bansa natin,” he said.

[Translation: We are not pro-Marcos, nor are we DDS (Duterte supporters), and we are not Kakampinks either. This is our own perspective as individuals or as members of the society living in our country.]

Santander added that he hopes the commission would be fair in hearing their plea.

The ICI has yet to address the letter submitted to their office.

NewsWatch Plus has reached out to the Palace for comment.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. earlier said he would spare no one – his family included – from the investigation into the alleged multi-billion pocketing of public funds.