In a significant development highlighting the government's ongoing anti-corruption drive, Justice Undersecretary Jose "Jojo" Cadiz Jr. has officially stepped down from his post. This move comes amid reports linking him to a contractor based in Ilocos Norte.
Resignation Confirmed Amid Ongoing Probe
The Office of the Press Secretary confirmed the resignation on Friday, December 5, 2025. Press Secretary Atty. Cheloy Garafil clarified that while the exact date of Cadiz's resignation has not been confirmed by the Department of Justice (DOJ), any investigation into the matter must proceed without interruption.
Garafil emphasized that Cadiz's decision to resign should be viewed positively. "It demonstrates the government's seriousness in eradicating corruption," she stated. She contrasted this with past administrations, noting that the current leadership does not tolerate individuals potentially involved in controversies, even before a formal judicial judgment is rendered.
The Press Secretary framed the resignation as an act of respect for the President and the Filipino public, fully aligning with the administration's core principle of fighting graft.
Pride in Sandro Marcos's ICI Appearance
In a related but separate matter, Press Secretary Garafil revealed that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. expressed pride in his son, House Majority Leader and Ilocos Norte 1st District Representative Ferdinand Alexander "Sandro" Marcos. This pride stems from Sandro's recent appearance before the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI).
Garafil described the presidential son's conduct as "proper and commendable" for facing the commission's inquiries. She highlighted that his voluntary appearance and recognition of the ICI's authority, unlike others, reflect how he was raised by his parents: "decent, not afraid, brave in facing an investigation, not hiding."
Support for the ICI Investigation Continues
To support the ICI's continuing probe into alleged anomalies in flood control projects, Garafil confirmed that the fact-finding body has already received the necessary funds to conduct its investigation. "All the help needed by the ICI that can come from the President is being provided," she assured.
When asked if the ICI would soon be dissolved now that the Office of the Ombudsman is set to take over the case, Garafil indicated this is a possibility. She explained that the ICI's primary role is to gather documents and facts to aid the anti-graft body and the Department of Justice in their subsequent proceedings.
The developments underscore a week of intense political scrutiny, balancing a high-profile resignation linked to provincial dealings with a public display of accountability from the First Family.
