Infrastructure Commission to Conclude Operations in March 2026 After Fulfilling Mandate
MANILA – The Independent Commission on Infrastructure (ICI) will officially terminate its operations on March 31, 2026, as announced by its chairperson, Andres Reyes Jr., on Friday, March 13, 2026. The commission has completed its investigative duties and transferred all critical documents to relevant government bodies.
Document Transfer and Agency Coordination
Reyes confirmed that the ICI has handed over all documents, evidence, and findings from its probe into anomalous flood control projects to the Office of the Ombudsman (OMB). Additionally, copies have been provided to the Department of Justice and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) for their records, review, and future guidance.
"With these frameworks and systems now in place, I believe that the Commission has fulfilled its mandate under Executive Order No. 94, and that the work initiated by the ICI is now properly situated to be carried forward by the agencies established by law," Reyes stated.
Recommendation for Wind-Down and Administrative Processes
The chairperson formally recommended that the ICI wind down its operations, with the commission remaining operational until March 31, 2026, to finalize necessary administrative procedures related to its closure. This timeline ensures a smooth transition of responsibilities to permanent agencies.
Key Achievements and Investigative Legacy
During its tenure, the ICI submitted nine referrals covering 65 individuals to the OMB and convened 20 agencies in the Technical Working Group for Asset Recovery. The commission also developed a sophisticated investigative methodology designed to detect fraud and irregularities in infrastructure projects, which is crucial for ongoing anti-corruption efforts.
"The investigative methodology developed by the ICI has been included in the materials turned over to the OMB to facilitate the seamless transition of the Commission's investigative work," Reyes explained.
Inter-Agency Coordination and Future Prosecutions
Reyes emphasized that strong inter-agency coordination has enabled proper investigations that could lead to successful prosecutions of responsible parties and the recovery of stolen public funds. He urged the Technical Working Group for Asset Recovery to continue its restitution efforts based on the guidance provided by the commission.
Support for Legislative Proposals
In his concluding remarks, Reyes expressed support for pending Senate and House bills proposing the establishment of the Independent Peoples' Commission and the Independent Commission Against Infrastructure Corruption, highlighting the need for sustained oversight in infrastructure governance.
