ICI to Livestream Investigation into Flood Control Irregularities

The Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) will begin livestreaming its investigation into alleged irregularities in government flood control projects starting next week, as announced by Chairperson Andres Bernal Reyes Jr. during a Senate hearing on October 22, 2025. This decision comes after increasing public demand for transparency regarding the PHP545-billion scandal involving potential kickbacks and “ghost dredging” in flood control contracts.

Asian JournalICI to livestream flood control probe starting next weekICI buckles; probe will be livestreamedICI to Livestream Flood Control Probe, Faces Criticism Over Delayed TransparencyICI to livestream probe on flood control irregularities next weekICI to livestream investigations on flood control project scandal next week

Established by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. through Executive Order No. 94 on September 11, 2025, the ICI serves as an independent fact-finding body under the Office of the President. Its mandate includes investigating infrastructure projects, summoning witnesses, and recommending cases to the Department of Justice or the Office of the Ombudsman. However, it does not possess prosecutorial powers.

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Reyes acknowledged that the commission is still in its early stages, having operated for only 39 days with limited resources, including just three lawyers for a significant portion of that time. Despite these challenges, he emphasized the commission's commitment to conducting a thorough investigation. The livestreaming initiative is seen as a step toward enhancing public trust and accountability.

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The decision to livestream has garnered mixed reactions. Senator Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan welcomed the move, stating that the public deserves to be informed about the investigation's progress. Conversely, lawmakers from the Makabayan bloc criticized the ICI for its delayed response to calls for transparency, suggesting that the decision was made under public pressure. Akbayan Representative Perci Cendaña echoed this sentiment, advocating for full transparency and the release of recordings from earlier hearings.

ICI to livestream probe on flood control irregularities next week

Makati Business Club Executive Director Rafael Ongpin supported the livestreaming but cautioned against turning the proceedings into a public spectacle, emphasizing the need for due process. Meanwhile, former Public Works Secretary Rogelio “Babes” Singson highlighted systemic failures across multiple agencies, implicating various high-ranking officials and calling for expanded powers for the ICI to effectively pursue its mandate.

ICI to Livestream Flood Control Probe, Faces Criticism Over Delayed Transparency

Reyes stated, “We will now go on livestream next week once we are able to have the technical capability with us already,” underscoring the commission's determination to enhance transparency. The Palace Press Officer noted that decisions regarding the ICI's proceedings rest solely with the commission, allowing it to maintain impartiality.

ICI buckles; probe will be livestreamed

As the ICI prepares to begin livestreaming, it faces the challenge of establishing technical capabilities and finalizing procedures. The commission has invited 40 individuals, including senators and Cabinet members, to testify, indicating the investigation's extensive scope. The public will be closely watching the proceedings as they unfold, with expectations for accountability and transparency in addressing the alleged anomalies in flood control projects.

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