Marcos creates commission to probe DPWH corruption in past decade

Metro Manila, Philippines - President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has signed an executive order creating an independent fact-finding commission to investigate corruption in flood control and other infrastructure projects of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) over a number of administrations.

Executive Order 94 established the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI), which Malacañang described as a body tasked with probing “anomalies, irregularities, and misuse of funds” in DPWH and related agencies.

The EO granted the commission wide powers, including the authority to “issue subpoenas ad testificandum and duces tecum,” “freeze or seize assets connected to any project under investigation,” and “recommend the filing of criminal, civil, or administrative cases” against officials found liable.

It also directed the ICI to prioritize flood control projects, stating: “The Commission shall review infrastructure projects, with priority on flood control programs implemented within the past ten (10) years.”

Findings may be referred to the Office of the Ombudsman, Department of Justice, Civil Service Commission, and other bodies for possible action.

The commission must submit monthly reports to the Office of the President through the executive secretary and is authorized to “publish its accomplishments and outputs as it may deem necessary.”

Malacañang said the ICI reflects Marcos’ commitment to “maintain honesty and integrity in public service” amid allegations of systemic corruption in the DPWH.