Independent Commission to Probe DPWH Flood Projects
MANILA, Philippines — President R. Ferdinand Marcos Jr. announced that an independent commission composed of three members outside the government will investigate the anomalous flood projects under the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH). This independent commission aims to prevent any interference from government officials, especially those linked to corruption allegations.
“I cannot divulge yet the personalities who will be part of the independent commission. I do not want to preempt the actual announcement because it is not yet final. But they will be revealed very soon,” the President said during the latest episode of his podcast on Sunday.
Diverse Experts to Lead the Investigation
According to sources close to the administration, the commission will include professionals from varied backgrounds, such as a former justice, an investigator, and a forensic accountant. Marcos emphasized the importance of granting the commission all necessary powers to reach conclusive findings.
“We will give them all the powers that are necessary for them to come to a conclusion, to come to some findings so that we will know how this happened,” the President added.
Malacañang officials shared that a meticulous screening process is underway to select qualified members for this third-party body. Among the names being considered are Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong, former DPWH Secretary Rogelio Singson, and retired Philippine National Police chief General Nicolas Torre III.
Executive Order and Legal Authority
Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin reported that the executive order establishing the independent commission is pending the President’s signature. He expressed confidence that the final document would be welcomed by the public, as it aims to serve the people’s interests.
Malacañang also indicated its intention to grant subpoena powers to the commission to strengthen its authority. This would empower the body to compel witnesses to appear and produce relevant documents or evidence during the investigation.
However, some lawmakers noted that granting subpoena powers might require legislation passed by Congress rather than just a presidential order. Subpoena powers would allow the commission to summon individuals and demand records, with penalties including fines or imprisonment for non-compliance.
Scope and Purpose of the Investigation
The independent commission’s primary focus will be a comprehensive review of flood control projects flagged for irregularities. Officials indicated that the investigation’s scope might later expand to include other infrastructure projects that have raised public concern.
President Marcos explained that the commission’s findings will serve as a basis for recommending accountability measures. These recommendations could lead to referrals to prosecuting bodies such as the Department of Justice or the Office of the Ombudsman for appropriate charges against involved officials or private individuals.
“The independent commission shall be tasked to conduct a comprehensive review of projects, identify irregularities, and recommend accountability measures to ensure public trust in infrastructure spending,” the President stated.
Community members and experts alike have welcomed the move, hoping it will bring transparency and justice to public infrastructure projects.
For more news and updates on independent commission investigation, visit Filipinokami.com.
