Palace: Independent commission for Infrastructure to Operate Independently in Flood Control Probe

MANILA — Malacañang on Tuesday, Sept. 16, assured the public that the newly formed Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) will function with full independence as it investigates alleged anomalies in flood control projects.

Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. decided to cancel his scheduled U.S. trip to focus on pressing domestic concerns, including the flooding crisis and corruption issues linked to public works.

Castro also addressed the upcoming Sept. 21 rally against corruption, calling it a people’s protest aligned with the President’s reform agenda. “The President does not see this as a threat, but as support for his advocacy,” she stressed, while clarifying there is no direct threat to Marcos’ life.

On proposals to give the ICI contempt powers, Castro said the suggestion is “welcome” to the President. She also dismissed calls for the military to withdraw support, emphasizing that protests should remain a civilian effort.

Citing Marcos’ reminder on accountability in infrastructure, Castro noted: “Even with good laws and honest leadership, if those below do not change, it is the people’s duty to call them out. As the President said, ‘Mahiya naman kayo.’”

Philippine People's Press | In Truth We Prevail