Senate Minority Leader Alan Peter Cayetano has urged the government to include representatives from the political opposition in the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI), saying the current anti-corruption drive linked to the flood control scandal could not be sustained without balance and fairness.
The ICI, established to investigate irregularities in infrastructure spending, is currently composed of former Supreme Court Associate Justice Andres Reyes Jr., former Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Rogelio “Babes” Singson, and SGV & Co. Country Managing Partner Rossana Fajardo.
Reyes was appointed to the Supreme Court by former President Rodrigo Duterte, while Singson previously served in the Cabinet of the late President Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III — a mix of officials from different administrations, but none representing the present-day opposition.
“Sa maraming bansa na nayuyugyog ng matinding crisis, nagkakaroon po yan ng mixed na cabinet or coalition government. Hindi kami humihingi ng pwesto sa kabinete. Ang hinihingi natin, maging patas. So halimbawa, representative ng opposition sa ICI,” Cayetano said.
He emphasized that a credible and transparent investigation requires diverse political perspectives to avoid perceptions of bias and ensure accountability.
Cayetano also proposed that the opposition be allowed to nominate representatives to other commissions or oversight bodies that President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. may form in the future.
According to him, this inclusive approach would help restore public trust and strengthen democratic checks in government-led inquiries into alleged corruption.