Senator Imee Marcos on Wednesday, April 1, called for the full public release of the final report of the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI), stressing that transparency is crucial in addressing alleged irregularities in flood control projects.
Marcos cited Executive Order 94, which created the ICI, noting that the body is mandated to publish its accomplishments as well as “such other relevant reports.”
She argued that the final report, along with supporting materials, should be made public to provide proper context and accountability.
“What could be a more relevant report than the final report itself?” Marcos said, adding that the commission should also release transcripts of its proceedings and documents submitted by resource persons.
The senator warned that withholding key documents could erode public trust, describing the government’s handling of the flood control issue as lacking transparency.
“Full transparency is the only way for the ICI and maybe, this administration, to redeem themselves in their dismal handling of the flood control mess,” she said.
She further questioned the rationale for creating the commission if its findings were not to be fully disclosed.
“Para que pang itinatag yang ICI kung itatago lang naman ang report, walang ilalantad na buwayang mastermind, at tuloy-tuloy lang ang pangungurakot, habang nalulunod sa baha at hirap ang sambayanan?” Marcos asked.
The ICI was established as a fact-finding body tasked with probing alleged irregularities in infrastructure projects, particularly flood control initiatives.
Malacañang earlier said the commission has completed its mandate and submitted its findings to the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Office of the Ombudsman for further action.
The Palace has maintained that investigations are ongoing, with the DOJ and Ombudsman handling case build-up and potential prosecutions based on the ICI’s recommendations.
Marcos, however, underscored that public disclosure remains critical, arguing that transparency is essential for accountability and restoring confidence in the government’s response.