Resigned commissioner of the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI), Rogelio ‘Babes’ Singson, appealed to Congress on Thursday to pass significant measures that would strengthen the commission, citing its limited powers and resources, RH Jecelle Ricafort reports.
In a press conference, Singson said the ICI, in its current form, lacks sufficient authority to effectively carry out its mandate.
He urged lawmakers to approve the Independent People’s Commission (IPC) bill in the Senate and the ICAIC measure in the House of Representatives, describing the legislation as urgent.
“What we wanted to convey was ICI as it is today does not have enough powers to be able to execute as quick as we can what we need to do. And that’s why I am appealing to members of Congress, both the House and the Senate, ipasa nyo na ‘yong IPC or yung Independent People’s Commission at the Senate level and the ICAIC which is at the lower House version,” Singson said.
“They committed that they will pass it before the end of the year, so hopefully by the end of the year we will now have a much stronger independent commission with proper powers and authorities,” he added.
Singson stressed that the commission has faced criticism for its inability to prevent certain individuals involved in anomalies from leaving the country or to compel attendance in hearings, due to its limited legal authority.
He also highlighted that the independent commission still does not have an operational budget, despite reports that the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) had approved over ₱4 million for the ICI this year. The funds, he said, have yet to be released to the commission.
The 77-year-old Singson submitted an irrevocable resignation, citing health and personal reasons.
At the press briefing, he revealed that he has been frequently hospitalized, is on maintenance medication for heart conditions, high blood pressure, and cholesterol, and is undergoing medical workouts. Singson also cited the stress and security concerns for his family.
“My 77-year-old body cannot take it anymore,” he said, adding that he believes he has accomplished what he set out to do for the commission and now seeks privacy. He clarified that his resignation was not due to political pressure, nor has he received security or death threats.
Despite stepping down, Singson assured ICI Chairman Andres Reyes that he remains available to assist the commission if needed.
