Marcos says ICI fate depends on unfinished tasks

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. admitted on Friday that the fate of the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) remains uncertain, with its continuation hinging on whether it still has work left to complete.

“Well, it depends on how much work they still have left. Kung matapos na yung trabaho nila, then we will see what they can do next,” Marcos Jr. said in an ambush interview on the sidelines of the Globe and Starlink ceremonial signing of a memorandum of agreement in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig.

“But they really are coming toward the end. Lahat ng kailangang imbestigahan, naimbestigahan na nila. Maybe there are one or two other loose ends that they have to clear up,” he added.

Asked whether there would be a reappointment of ICI commissioners, the President said no decision has been made.

“Again, it all depends on the work that ICI still has in front of them. Pag kailangan pa, then we will. But if the work is done, kung naibigay na lahat ng information sa DOJ (Department of Justice) and sa Ombudsman, then the focus now of the investigation will go to the DOJ and the Ombudsman,” Marcos Jr. said.

Earlier on Friday, the ICI said it could not resume operations after being left with only one commissioner.

Executive Order No. 94 provides that the commission is composed of a chairperson and two members, and as a collegial body, it may take official action only with the approval of a majority of its members.

“Consequently, following the resignation of its two commissioners, the Commission is unable to resume its official operations until a quorum is restored,” the ICI said.

Former Supreme Court Justice Andres Reyes Jr. continues to serve as chairperson, while Commissioners Rogelio Singson and Rossana Fajardo have concluded their service after completing the tasks entrusted to them.

Reyes is currently supported by the commission’s working staff, including Executive Director Brian Hosaka and Special Adviser and former Philippine National Police chief Rodolfo Azurin Jr.