MANILA – Rogelio Singson, a key commissioner on the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) tasked with probing corruption in public works like flood control projects, resigned on Wednesday, December 3, 2025, due to the intense stress of the role and unspecified security concerns. At 77, Singson cited the toll on his health and a desire for a quieter life, marking a significant blow to the Marcos administration’s anti-graft efforts as the commission faces growing scrutiny over its independence and effectiveness.
ICI Chair Andres Reyes Jr., a former Supreme Court justice, confirmed the resignation during a briefing, noting Singson’s effective departure on December 15, with a possible extension to December 31. “The very intense and stressful ICI work has taken its toll on his aging body,” Reyes explained, adding that Singson, who served as public works secretary under President Benigno Aquino III, was unaccustomed to such high-stakes scrutiny. Reyes downplayed the impact, insisting the commission could press on: “We can continue investigative work. We have been fighting almost against everybody already. I think that’s enough trust that we are building on for the Filipino people.”
However, Reyes avoided elaborating on the security risks, fueling speculation amid the probe’s explosive revelations. Singson reportedly texted Caloocan Rep. Edgar Erice, expressing frustration that the ICI was being used to “solve the problems of Malacañang” and questioning why he should “risk my life and my family finding out who stole from the government.” Erice, a Liberal Party stalwart, declared the commission “dead and with zero credibility” without Singson, whose expertise as a former DPWH head was invaluable.
Probe Context and Reactions
The ICI, formed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to investigate anomalies in infrastructure spending – particularly the P20-billion flood control scandal involving ghost projects and kickbacks – has filed six reports to the Ombudsman, recommending charges against lawmakers, DPWH officials, engineers, and contractors. A seventh referral on November 21 targeted DPWH irregularities. Assisted by former PNP chief Rodolfo Azurin Jr. (replacing Baguio Mayor Benjamin Magalong, who quit in September over independence concerns), the ICI’s hearings went live for the first time this week, amplifying public pressure.
Reactions poured in swiftly:
- Makabayan Bloc (Reps. Antonio Tinio, Sarah Elago, Renee Co): Demanded transparency, suggesting the resignation reveals “political limits” to the anticorruption drive, potentially shielding “big fish” while targeting small players.
- Akbayan Rep. Perci Cendaña: Called it a development that “adds questions and doubts” to the ICI’s ability to hold officials accountable.
- Bicol Saro Rep. Terry Ridon (House infrastructure chair): Labeled it a “serious setback,” urging Marcos to appoint an expert replacement given Singson’s insider knowledge.
- Mamamayang Liberal Rep. Leila de Lima: Pushed for legislative bolstering of the ICI, emphasizing the need for stronger tools.
Erice highlighted Singson’s inquiries into House Bills 4453 and 5699, which would grant broader powers, but Speaker Faustino “Bojie” Dy III has not prioritized them, and the Palace hasn’t certified urgency with sessions winding down.
Reyes, unfazed, stated no replacement plans are in place yet, as “it’s not my concern; that is the recommendation of the president.” The resignation coincides with resigned Ako Bicol Rep. Elizaldy Co’s videos implicating Marcos, former Speaker Martin Romualdez, and Rep. Sandro Marcos in budget manipulations, intensifying the probe’s political stakes.
Singson’s exit – from a commission already thinned by Magalong’s departure – raises questions about its viability amid public calls for deeper accountability in the flood scandal, which has left communities vulnerable and sparked nationwide protests like the Trillion Peso March.