Outgoing Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) Commissioner Rogelio “Babes” Singson lamented that the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) has been left to carry the weight of investigating anomalies in flood control projects without adequate funding, manpower, or equipment.
“We need to put our trust in different institutions pero dapat kumilos din ang ibang agency. Hindi lang ICI. Ano janitor ba kami? Pati ang Kongreso dapat kumilos din para hindi na maulit ito,” Singson said in press conference, his frustration evident.
The remark captured the essence of his criticism: that the ICI has been treated as a catch-all cleaner for systemic corruption, while other agencies and Congress fail to share responsibility.
Commission Without Capacity
Singson revealed that the ICI still operates without its own budget, relying on volunteer staff and borrowed equipment from the private sector.
“Even our printer is borrowed. How can we be expected to lead anti-corruption efforts when we don’t even have basic tools?” he asked.
He warned that without proper resources, the commission’s capacity to investigate and prevent irregularities will remain severely limited.
Call for Specialized Leadership
The outgoing commissioner recommended that his successor be a CPA-lawyer, someone capable of managing both the legal and financial aspects of the commission.
“The ICI needs leadership that can strengthen its institutional backbone. A CPA-lawyer would be best positioned to handle the complexities we face,” he said.
Personal Toll and Resignation
Singson admitted that the stress of leading the commission had worsened his health and strained his family’s privacy.
“I feel that I’ve done what I have to do for ICI, but I also have to answer to the needs of my family,” he explained. “This is not because I don’t want to serve, but because of the intense stress and security concerns that have affected my loved ones.” (ZIA LUNA)
