President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. wants the independent commission that will investigate alleged anomalous flood control projects to be given the power to issue subpoenas.
According to Palace Press Officer Undersecretary Claire Castro, this authority is meant to give the body real teeth in carrying out its mandate. She confirmed that the Executive Order creating the commission is now being finalized.
Marcos earlier stated that the commission would be tasked to recommend the filing of appropriate cases before the Office of the Ombudsman or the Department of Justice (DOJ).
Baguio City Mayor Benjie Magalong—among the first to expose corruption in flood control projects—said he is ready to be part of the independent commission. However, he has yet to receive any invitation from Malacañang.
“Alam ko naman na si Presidente, he has his own strategy, alam ko naman na ang pipiliin niya (ay) credible individuals, distinguished themselves in have good track record and reputation kaya because this will actually determine his credibility as well kaya he won’t miss this opportunity,” Magalong stressed.