PBBM vows no interference in infrastructure probe

President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. vowed not to interfere with the Independent Commission on Infrastructure's (ICI) investigation into anomalies in government flood control and infrastructure projects over the last decade.

The ICI, chaired by former Supreme Court Associate Justice Andres Reyes Jr., has the authority to summon witnesses and request records for its probe.

Marcos emphasized the independent nature of the commission, stating that while discussions and updates will occur, his administration will not direct the ICI's investigative process.

Findings and recommendations from the ICI will be submitted to appropriate government bodies, such as the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Office of the Ombudsman, for further action, including potential legal proceedings.

The President clarified that the ICI is not a prosecutorial body and does not have the power to hold individuals in contempt, with such actions being the responsibility of the agencies receiving the commission's findings.

Marcos initiated the scrutiny of substandard or non-existent flood control projects during his fourth State of the Nation Address in July 2024, which led to the launch of a website for public verification of project status.