Palace spox questions VP Duterte's motive on ICI probe

Palace press officer Claire Castro questioned Vice President Sara Duterte's motives for challenging the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) flood control probe, suggesting the Vice President might be afraid of what the investigation could uncover.

Castro's remarks were a direct response to Duterte's earlier statement that the ICI was created by the government to legitimize its narratives on corruption.

Duterte had expressed skepticism about the ICI's mandate, questioning why it needed to conduct investigations when the Office of the President possesses substantial confidential funds for case-building.

Castro criticized individuals within the government who, according to Castro, undermine it with mere speculations instead of offering constructive help.

She added that it is unfortunate that some government officials like the vice president would cast doubt on the investigation the ICI is conducting into possible corruption of public works funding by lawmakers, contractors and officials.

Castro said Duterte's remarks only undermined efforts to promote transparency and curb corruption.