Photo credit: PCO

MANILA – In a significant move to ensure transparency and accountability in the nation's ambitious infrastructure development, President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. has ordered the creation of the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI). This new body is set to act as a dedicated watchdog, tasked with investigating and addressing irregularities in government infrastructure projects.

The establishment of the ICI comes amid growing concerns and allegations of anomalies, misuse of funds, and potential corruption in projects, particularly those related to flood control, which are vital for public safety and welfare. The President's order underscores the administration's firm commitment to upholding honesty and integrity in public service, and to holding accountable any individual or entity engaged in corrupt practices that undermine national interest.

Under the President's directive, the ICI will be composed of a Chairperson and two Members, all chosen for their proven competence, integrity, probity, and independence. The Commission's mandate is broad, allowing it to investigate, receive, gather, and evaluate evidence and intelligence reports related to anomalies, irregularities, and misuse of funds across the planning, financing, and implementation of all government flood control and other infrastructure projects nationwide.

To achieve its goals, the ICI will wield significant powers, including the authority to conduct hearings, subpoena witnesses and documents, and recommend the filing of appropriate criminal, civil, and administrative cases. It can also recommend the immediate preventive suspension of public officials or employees to prevent tampering with evidence during investigations, and even request the freezing or seizure of assets believed to be connected to anomalous projects.

The Commission is expected to work closely with various government bodies, including the Department of Justice, the Office of the Ombudsman, and the Civil Service Commission, among others. It will also be able to invite and collaborate with public and private individuals with expertise in governance, transparency, and accountability.

The creation of the ICI is seen as a crucial step towards safeguarding public funds and ensuring that infrastructure projects are executed efficiently and honestly, ultimately benefiting the Filipino people and enhancing public trust in government institutions. The ICI will submit monthly reports to the Office of the Executive Secretary and is set to take effect immediately upon publication.