Senior Deputy Minority Leader Rep. Egay Erice stirred debate after saying the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) is “dead” following the resignation of Commissioner Babes Singson.
In an interview, Erice said messages he received from Singson showed disappointment in the state of the commission. He claimed Singson felt their safety was uncertain and that the commission was being used like a cleanup arm for the Palace.
Erice also argued that the ICI lacked a congressional mandate, limiting its authority to investigate alleged irregularities in flood control projects. Without this mandate, he said the body held no power to pursue probes or secure immunity and protection for members in case accusations were raised against them.
However, ICI Executive Director Atty. Brian Hosaka rejected Erice’s statements. He said Singson resigned due to stress and heavy workload. Hosaka maintained the ICI continues its functions despite the controversy.
The contrasting statements leave questions hanging over the commission’s future and authority. With one side calling it “dead” and another insisting it remains operational, the discussion highlights a growing concern over the body’s capacity to investigate infrastructure issues and protect its members.
