The Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) on Wednesday, in the Philippines, fulfilled its mandate to investigate alleged corruption in flood control projects and may now have to turn over the probe to the Office of the Ombudsman, according to Deputy Speaker and Antipolo Representative Ronaldo Puno, who explained how the transition of the inquiry could proceed.
Puno said the ICI completed its fact-finding work on reported irregularities in the implementation of government flood control projects and identified issues that warranted further investigation by appropriate authorities.
He stated that the commission gathered evidence, conducted hearings, and examined project documents related to the alleged corruption in several flood control initiatives.
He added that the body submitted its findings and recommendations to relevant government agencies for evaluation and possible action.
Puno said the Office of the Ombudsman holds the constitutional authority to conduct formal investigations and file charges in connection with corruption cases involving public officials and employees.
He noted that the Ombudsman can review the ICI’s findings and determine whether to initiate administrative or criminal proceedings against individuals implicated in the alleged anomalies.
He added that any subsequent actions by the Ombudsman could include the filing of formal complaints, the conduct of preliminary investigations, and the pursuit of cases before the appropriate courts or tribunals.
