Manila: Malaca±ang on Wednesday announced that the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Office of the Ombudsman are currently 'overwhelmed' by the volume of cases referred by the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI), clarifying that the panel's role was limited to fact-finding. Palace Press Officer Claire Castro explained that the ICI, which concluded its operations on March 31, was tasked only with gathering evidence, testimonies, and documents on alleged anomalies in flood control projects.

According to Philippines News Agency, Castro emphasized that the ICI is merely a fact-finding committee and that the responsibility of filing cases lies with the Ombudsman and DOJ. In a radio interview, she stated, "Ang ICI po ay fact-finding committee lamang. Ang magsasampa ng kaso ay ang Ombudsman at DOJ," meaning that the ICI's duty was to collect evidence, while the legal proceedings are the responsibility of the DOJ and Ombudsman.

Castro noted that the commission has already submitted its findings to the proper authorities, which include referrals involving dozens of individuals linked to questionable infrastructure projects. During its six-month investigation, the ICI endorsed cases implicating at least 65 individuals, including lawmakers and contractors.

She further explained that the volume of referrals has placed pressure on investigating bodies, which are now conducting preliminary investigations. "Sa dami po ng kasong nairekomenda, mukhang overwhelmed po ang Ombudsman at DOJ," Castro mentioned, highlighting the challenges faced by these institutions due to the high number of cases referred.

The Palace issued this clarification in response to criticism regarding the absence of high-profile prosecutions or 'big fish' linked to the alleged anomalies. Castro reiterated that accountability takes time and assured that cases are now in the hands of constitutionally mandated institutions. She also encouraged those with evidence against alleged high-level offenders to file formal complaints.

The administration remains committed to pursuing accountability, with the ICI's work aimed at jumpstarting and strengthening formal investigations into flood control irregularities.