Marcos Jr. grants ICI freedom on probe policies, amid public hearing calls

Title President Marcos Jr. Grants ICI Freedom to Investigate Flood-Control Scam, Amid Calls for Public Hearings

The Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) has been granted autonomy to investigate the flood-control scam involving Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) officials and corrupt politicians without interference from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., according to a statement released by Malacañang on Tuesday.

As the ICI proceeds with its hearings, some have called for public and media access to proceedings. However, the commission has raised concerns that live-streaming could be exploited by individuals seeking to influence public opinion, potentially leading to trial by publicity.

In a press conference, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro emphasized President Marcos Jr.'s commitment to the ICI's independence The President has already stated that the ICI is an independent commission... So, whatever policies and procedures it will implement, the President will respect and not interfere because it is an independent body or commission.

Established on September 11, 2025, through Executive Order 94, the ICI was tasked with investigating the flood-control scam. Chaired by retired Supreme Court Justice Andres Reyes Jr., the commission has been working closely with the Department of Justice, Commission on Audit, and DPWH to gather evidence and build a solid case against those responsible.

The ICI's efforts to uncover substandard and ghost infrastructure projects have included field inspections, affidavit collection, and audit report analysis. The commission's proactive approach has already led to the identification of several suspect projects, which are being further investigated.

The appointment of former Philippine National Police chief Rodolfo Azurin Jr. as the ICI's new special adviser and investigator is also expected to bring fresh perspectives and expertise to the investigation.

As the ICI continues its probe, it remains to be seen whether public hearings will become a reality. However, with President Marcos Jr.'s commitment to the commission's independence, the ICI has been granted the freedom to pursue its investigation without external influence.

Key Takeaways

The Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) has been granted autonomy to investigate the flood-control scam without interference from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
The ICI has begun holding hearings, but without public or media access.
Some have called for public and media access to proceedings, citing concerns about trial by publicity.
The commission's proactive approach has already led to the identification of several suspect projects.
Former Philippine National Police chief Rodolfo Azurin Jr. has been appointed as the ICI's new special adviser and investigator.

Conclusion

The ICI's investigation into the flood-control scam is a critical step towards holding those responsible accountable for their actions. With President Marcos Jr.'s commitment to the commission's independence, the ICI can continue its probe without external influence. As the investigation unfolds, it will be important to strike a balance between transparency and the need to protect sensitive information.

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Edward Lance Arellano Lorilla

CEO / Co-Founder

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