House Speaker Urges Submission of Flood Control Probe to Independent Commission

House Speaker Faustino "Bojie" Dy II has suggested that the ongoing probe into alleged irregularities in flood control projects should be handed over to the Independent Commission on Infrastructure (ICI), a body created by the Palace.

In a brief interview on Monday, September 22, Dy emphasized the need for the House of Representatives to defer the investigation to the ICI. He noted skepticism among the public regarding the current House Infrastructure Committee’s handling of the issue.

"We need to submit this to the ICI. Most of our fellow citizens do not trust what is happening in the infra committee," Dy stated. He added, "I believe it would be better to pass it on to the ICI."

The remarks refer to the House Infrastructure Committee, a special joint panel established under the previous House leadership to examine alleged anomalous and "ghost" flood mitigation projects in the government. The committee has conducted two public hearings so far.

Meanwhile, the ICI, headed by retired Supreme Court Justice Andres Reyes Jr., has also convened to begin its own investigation.

Dy, who represents Isabela's 6th district and was appointed House Speaker on September 17, stressed the urgency of prioritizing the 2026 national budget. He stated that the chamber’s main focus remains on the timely passage of the proposed P6.793-trillion budget.

"What is crucial now is to finish our budget. This is where we are focusing. We will ensure the budget is handled properly and transparently. We hope to be granted enough time to do this," Dy explained.

His call to transfer the probe to the ICI aligns with efforts to enhance transparency and public trust amid ongoing legislative responsibilities.