The Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) reaffirmed its mandate to pursue accountability and combat corruption in public works, following public debate on whether “love” or “struggle” is needed to address systemic wrongdoing in government.

ICI Executive Director Atty. Brian Keith Hosaka clarified the commission’s core mission after labor leader Atty. Luke Espiritu rejected ICI Chairperson Andres Reyes Jr.’s call for “national love and altruism” in addressing corruption. Espiritu argued instead that the country must embrace “laban” or struggle to confront entrenched wrongdoing.

Hosaka emphasized that rhetoric aside, the ICI’s work remains grounded in its legal mandate.

“It goes without saying that the ICI is here to fight corruption and make all individuals responsible for the anomalous infrastructure projects brought to justice,” Hosaka said. “That’s the ICI’s purpose and the commission is fueled by that mandate.”

Reyes earlier urged “national solidarity and self-sacrifice,” calling on Filipinos to choose compassion over greed. Espiritu, while acknowledging a personal friendship with Reyes, countered that the political moment requires resistance—not sentiment.

The commission continues to investigate alleged irregularities in infrastructure spending across multiple regions.