BAGUIO CITY, Philippines — Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong said the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) was unable to fully carry out its mandate due to insufficient authority and funding, raising concerns over gaps in the investigation into alleged irregularities in flood control projects.
LIMITED POWER, RESOURCES CITED
In a recent interview, Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong, who previously served as a special adviser to the ICI, explained that the commission struggled to conduct a comprehensive probe into individuals allegedly involved in the controversy.
He pointed out that the lack of enforcement powers and financial support significantly restricted the commission’s ability to act effectively.
“They had difficulty performing their mandate. They lacked authority, power, and funding,” Magalong said.
Magalong also claimed that several lawmakers and contractors linked to questionable projects have yet to be scrutinized.
REJECTS CLAIMS FOR BEING ‘FOR SHOW’
When asked if the commission was merely created to give the appearance of addressing flood control issues, Magalong dismissed the notion, saying it would be unfair to the commissioners and members who took part in the initiative.
“It would be insulting to us and the commissioners to say we were just for display,” he said.
CONCERNS OVER KEY WITNESS
Magalong further alleged that there could be efforts to prevent former lawmaker Zaldy Co from returning to the Philippines to testify.
According to him, Co possesses crucial information that could strengthen the investigation, but stressed that video statements alone are insufficient unless formalized through sworn testimony and documentation.
“He knows a lot. It would be a waste if his videos are not translated into documents or testimony under oath,” Magalong said, adding that some individuals may not want Co to return.
ALLEGATIONS AGAINST TOP OFFICIALS
Co had earlier released videos accusing President Bongbong Marcos and former House Speaker Martin Romualdez of using him as a scapegoat in the administration’s anti-corruption campaign.
The former lawmaker’s passport was canceled in December, adding another layer of complexity to efforts to secure his testimony.
FLOOD CONTROL CONTROVERSY
The ICI was established to investigate alleged anomalies in flood control projects across the country, amid public concern over recurring flooding despite significant government spending on infrastructure.
However, the commission’s limitations, as highlighted by Magalong, have raised questions about accountability and the government’s ability to effectively address corruption in large-scale public works.