House leaders back Marcos on nearing end of ICI probe

House Deputy Speaker Paolo Ortega V of La Union and House Committee on Higher and Technical Education Chairperson Jude Acidre on Tuesday expressed support for President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s statement that the work of the Independent Commission on Infrastructure (ICI) is “coming toward the end.”

Ortega said the President’s statement was anchored on the ICI’s own assessment and the scope of work already accomplished, noting that completion is defined by findings and recommendations.

“The President’s statement reflects the assessment submitted by the ICI based on the work accomplished,” Ortega said. “Completion is determined by findings and recommendations, not by arbitrary number-based benchmarks.”

He dismissed insinuations that the probe was ended to shield anyone, stressing that no individual is exempt from scrutiny if supported by evidence.

Acidre, for his part, said the President’s statement reflects the assessment submitted by the ICI based on the work completed and records already reviewed, stressing that conclusions are driven by findings, not numerical estimates.

He said all conclusions on the ICI were based on the work completed and the records already reviewed, adding that the decision was grounded on findings, not percentages, and does not preclude further action should new evidence surface.

Acidre rejected claims that the administration was avoiding the truth, saying accountability should remain evidence-based.

“Claims that the administration is avoiding the truth are unfounded,” Acidre said. “The President has consistently maintained that accountability must be based on evidence, not speculation or political pressure.”

Acidre said the proper course is to allow the Office of the Ombudsman and the Department of Justice to carry out their respective mandates.

Ortega echoed the view, saying it is important to let the Office of the Ombudsman and the Department of Justice perform their constitutional and legal functions.

“The proper forum now is the Office of the Ombudsman and the Department of Justice,” Ortega said. “These are the institutions with the authority and mandate to act based on evidence.”

Ortega also voiced confidence in Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla, citing public support for his leadership.