THE Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) remains united and fully operational, with its executive director, Atty. Brian Hosaka said on Tuesday, denying claims that one of its members was planning to resign.
“There is no truth to reports that an ICI member wants to step down. The commission remains intact and continues to investigate in accordance with its mandate,” Hosaka said in a statement.
He added that the ICI had a scheduled hearing on Tuesday morning, underscoring the commission’s ongoing work despite rumors of internal discord.
The clarification came after House Senior Deputy Minority Leader Edgar Erice claimed Monday that an ICI member was “losing hope” and “might resign” over what he described as the body’s “insufficient authority.”
The ICI, created by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., is tasked with investigating alleged corruption in flood control projects.
However, the body currently lacks contempt powers, limiting its authority to compel cooperation during inquiries.
Some lawmakers, including Erice, have since proposed granting the ICI such powers to strengthen its investigative reach.
Meanwhile, Senator Mark Villar, who previously served as Public Works Secretary under the Duterte administration, appeared before the commission as a resource person on Tuesday.
Government contractors Curlee and Sarah Discaya also attended the ICI hearing.