Marcos Jr. creates commission to probe infra anomalies

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has established the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) through Executive Order No. 94 to investigate alleged anomalies in flood control and other public works projects.

The three-member commission is empowered to hear, investigate, gather, and evaluate evidence against government officials, employees, and individuals involved in corruption related to these projects.

The ICI can recommend and file civil, administrative, or criminal cases with relevant government bodies, including the Office of the President, the Office of the Ombudsman, the Department of Justice, and the Civil Service Commission.

It can act on its own initiative or upon complaint and has the authority to subpoena individuals and records.

This move by President Marcos Jr. is in response to growing public concern and allegations of ghost projects and kickback conspiracies.

The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has expressed its intention to collaborate with the ICI and plans to file charges against 18 personnel and contractors implicated in flood control project issues.