Youth group hits ICI over ‘selective’ probe

MANILA, Philippines — A youth group has criticized the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI), accusing it of selectively conducting its probe into alleged irregularities in flood control projects.

The Samahan ng Progresibong Kabataan (SPARK) said the ICI has “functioned less as a mechanism for accountability and more as a shield for those closest” to President Marcos.

The group issued the statement after former House speaker Martin Romualdez was reportedly cleared by the ICI of liability in the controversy.

“If the fight against corruption is serious, it should not choose its targets. All those involved must be held accountable. But what we are seeing is that this is being used as a political tool, contrary to the will of the people,” SPARK said.

The group pointed out that during Romualdez’s tenure, large allocations were funneled to his district, citing data showing billions of pesos in funding over several years.

SPARK said the issue goes beyond the amount of funds received, noting that as Speaker, Romualdez had influence over the budget process.

The group also claimed that the ICI failed to hold accountable allies of the administration, including presidential son Sandro Marcos.

SPARK said the clearing of high-ranking officials only reinforces a system vulnerable to misuse of public funds, reiterating its call for the prosecution of all officials involved in the flood control mess.

In a related development, Tingog party-list Rep. Jude Acidre clarified that he got hold of the ICI report, which found no conclusion of guilt or liability on the part of Romualdez regarding the flood control anomalies, as early as November last year.

“There should be no confusion as to how the document came into public circulation,” he said yesterday. — Jose Rodel Clapano