Malacañang Palace on Thursday said that former Public Works Secretary Rogelio “Babes” Singson’s departure will not affect the integrity of the Independent Commission on Infrastructure (ICI), citing his resignation was due to health concerns.

This comes as Singson stepped down from the independent body, saying his decision was prompted by health issues.

“Of course we respect the decision of Secretary Singson considering the health reason,” Palace Press Officer Undersecretary Claire Castro said.

“There are still many good people in ICI and this will not be affected,” she added.

Castro noted that the work of the ICI is extremely difficult.

“Almost every day they have meetings and hearings, with tons of documents to read. ICI's work is really no joke,” she said.

ICI Chairperson and former Supreme Court Associate Justice Andres Reyes earlier said Singson’s resignation will take effect on 15 December 2025, though it may be extended until 31 December.

Implement master plan, Dizon urged

Castro said Singson wants to work with current Department of Public Works and Highways Secretary Vince Dizon, urging him to implement the flood control master plan completed at the end of the Aquino administration but left unimplemented during the Duterte administration.

“Maybe he saw that his role was over because lawyers were all that was needed, since almost all the investigations had already been completed, and maybe his expertise was there to provide assistance to the DPWH,” she said.

Singson is the second ICI member to resign, following Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong, who stepped down earlier citing conflict of interest.