Sandro says he’s ready to face ICI

Sandro says he’s ready to face ICI | Daily Tribune

House Majority Leader Ferdinand Alexander “Sandro” Marcos on Thursday said he is ready to face the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI), as allegations by former Ako Bicol Rep. Elizaldy “Zaldy” Co continue to expand beyond budget issues and into the Marcos family’s business dealings.

In a letter to ICI Chair Andres Reyes Jr., Marcos said he had “nothing to hide” and pledged to answer all questions. “No one is above the law. I stand ready to cooperate, answer any questions, and provide any clarifications needed,” he said.

Co accused Sandro of pushing P50.938 billion in insertions over three budget cycles — P9.636 billion in 2023, P20.174 billion in 2024, and P21.127 billion in 2025.

He also alleged that when contractors demanded the return of P8 billion due to shortfalls, Sandro threatened to oust him as appropriations chair and to file charges.

Sandro dismissed Co’s accusations as fabrications made “by a criminal evading justice.”

Co further claimed that Sandro’s father, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., and uncle, former House Speaker Martin Romualdez, had ordered P100 billion in insertions for 2025 flood control and infrastructure projects, and that suitcases of cash were delivered to Malacañang and the private residences of the two.

Both the President and Romualdez have denied the allegations.

In his latest video, Co widened his accusations, saying that First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos and her brother, Martin Araneta, influenced the prices of onions and other agricultural commodities, suggesting insider manipulation in the commodities market.

ICI executive director Brian Hosaka said the panel will meet soon to set Sandro’s appearance. Since Sandro did not request an executive session, the hearing may be livestreamed.

Meanwhile, Quezon City Representatives Marivic Co-Pilar and Patrick Michael “PM” Vargas appeared Friday before the ICI after they were tagged by contractor-couple Curlee and Sarah Discaya in the flood control project anomalies.

Both denied involvement and asked to testify in executive session.

Other lawmakers who have faced the ICI included Representatives Arjo Atayde, Dean Asistio, Reynante Arrogancia and Leody Tarriela.