ICI sends referrals to Ombudsman as probe zeroes in on top firms

The Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) has intensified its investigation into alleged ghost projects in flood-control initiatives, with an eye on top contractors named by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

According to Atty. Brian Keith Hosaka, executive director of the commission, the ICI has already submitted referrals to the Office of the Ombudsman in connection with personalities allegedly linked to ghost projects, noting that accountability could extend to several congressmen and senators.

“We have submitted referrals. It is up to the Ombudsman to investigate and eventually file appropriate charges,” Hosaka said, adding that the commission’s current focus is on the 15 contractors cited by the President. “That is our concentration because we want to make sure our case build-up continues at the ICI.”

Hosaka disclosed that the commission is monitoring a total of 421 alleged ghost projects but is prioritizing the top 15 contractors.

He also confirmed that the Philippine National Police–Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (PNP-CIDG) has been assisting the commission in gathering documents and evidence for ongoing case preparation.

He said, “Yesterday, the PNP-CIDG submitted 95 boxes of documents, evidence, and contracts. These pertain to 28 supposed ghost projects we are reviewing and investigating.”

Hosaka expressed hope that once the ICI completes its case build-up, the potential cases could be formally referred to the Ombudsman. “There may come a time when we can no longer count all the referrals we will provide to the Ombudsman,” he added.

The developments come amid heightened scrutiny of flood-control projects nationwide, following reports of alleged anomalies and mismanagement in government infrastructure initiatives.