MANILA, Philippines — Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) Chairman Andres Reyes Jr. on Friday recommended that the commission investigating alleged anomalies in flood control projects begin winding down its operations, saying its mandate has largely been fulfilled after turning over key evidence to authorities.
Reyes said the ICI had already submitted all documents, evidence, and investigative findings to the Office of the Ombudsman, as detailed in the commission’s 125-Day Report filed with the Office of the President of the Philippines on February 6, 2026.
According to Reyes, the commission established an investigative framework and methodology that government prosecutors can now adopt in examining suspected irregularities in infrastructure projects.
The ICI also submitted nine formal referrals covering 65 individuals to the Ombudsman and organized a Technical Working Group for Asset Recovery involving 20 government agencies to pursue the recovery of public funds linked to questionable projects.
“With these frameworks and systems now in place, I believe that the Commission has fulfilled its mandate under Executive Order No. 94, and that the work initiated by the ICI is now properly situated to be carried forward by the agencies established by law,” Reyes said.
He said the commission will remain operational until March 31, 2026, to complete administrative processes related to its closure.
Reyes also called on the Technical Working Group for Asset Recovery to continue restitution efforts based on the guidance provided by the commission.
In addition, he urged Congress to act swiftly on pending proposals to create permanent oversight bodies, including the Independent Peoples’ Commission and the Independent Commission Against Infrastructure Corruption, which aim to strengthen long-term monitoring and accountability in public infrastructure spending.
“As the investigation continues through the coordinated efforts of our government agencies, may we remain vigilant and steadfast in ensuring that those responsible are held accountable and brought to justice,” Reyes said. “Crime does not, and should never, pay. No one is, and should ever be, above the law.”