Manila: Malaca±ang has emphasized the need for careful consideration of the proposal to enact a law that would institutionalize the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI), cautioning against potential redundancy with existing government agencies.

According to Philippines News Agency, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro supported former Solicitor General Florin Hilbay’s stance that there is no necessity to legislate a stronger ICI, as current bodies like the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Office of the Ombudsman already possess the mandate to investigate and prosecute public officials involved in irregular activities. Castro, a lawyer, articulated these views in a Palace press briefing, highlighting that creating another independent body might lead to overlapping functions.

Hilbay previously argued in a Facebook post that the government already has sufficient institutional capacity to address misconduct by public officials, including those implicated in questionable flood control projects. Castro echoed this sentiment, referring to Executive Order 94, signed by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., which established the ICI to support the DOJ and the Ombudsman in document collection related to these projects.

While Malaca±ang remains open to Congress’s decision on institutionalizing the ICI, Castro stressed the importance of a thorough evaluation of the proposal. She affirmed that President Marcos will honor the constitutional process and respect congressional outcomes regarding the matter.

Castro further clarified Malaca±ang’s position, stating that the Palace will assess the bill’s content should it advance in the legislative process. She emphasized that the President will adhere to the legislative role of lawmakers, which includes passing laws, thereby underscoring the separation of powers between the executive and legislative branches.