Manila: Malaca±ang announced that while the proposed contempt powers for the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) are seen as beneficial, they are not deemed necessary to fulfill the commission’s objectives. Palace Press Officer Claire Castro emphasized that the ICI was established by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. as a fact-finding body to investigate irregularities in flood control projects, thus not requiring additional punitive powers.
According to Philippines News Agency, Castro stated that the President views the ICI as a body primarily for gathering facts, and hence, does not consider it essential to grant it the authority to punish non-compliant individuals. However, Castro noted that if lawmakers decide to endow the commission with contempt powers, the President would welcome the suggestion.
The ICI, chaired by retired Supreme Court Justice Andres Reyes Jr., is tasked with probing alleged anomalies in multi-billion-peso flood control projects. The commission includes former Public Works Secretary Rogelio ‘Babes’ Singson and SGV and Co. executive Rossana Fajardo as members, with Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong serving as a special adviser.
Castro also expressed approval for Senate President Vicente Sotto III’s initiative to request President Marcos to prioritize the legislation to institutionalize the ICI. She highlighted the importance lawmakers see in the President’s decision to form the independent commission.
As outlined under Executive Order 94, signed by Marcos on September 11, the ICI is mandated to investigate corruption and misuse of funds in government flood control projects over the past decade. A Secretariat, led by an Executive Director with the rank of Undersecretary, will provide necessary support to the commission. Castro indicated that the appointment of the executive director would occur within the week.
Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman, during an interview at Malaca±an, revealed that approximately PHP21 million would be allocated from the Miscellaneous Personnel Benefits Fund for the ICI’s Personal Services. She noted that the commission’s budget for Maintenance and Other Operating Expenses and Capital Outlay would be sourced from the contingency fund, although specific funding needs are yet to be finalized.