Senate President Vicente “Tito” Sotto III stated that the proposed bill creating the Independent People’s Commission (IPC) may be approved next year. Sotto noted that Congress’ immediate priority is to ratify the 2026 General Appropriations Bill, which includes the proposed P6.793-trillion national budget, on Monday, December 29. “Only budget for the 29th,” he told reporters. Earlier, he said senators would fast-track the passage of the IPC, one of the priority measures of the Marcos administration. Polo Martinez stated that the agency “trusts that the ICI shall continue to fulfill its mandate under the law” and welcomes initiatives that may aid in investigating corruption, particularly in flood control projects. Martinez emphasized that the DOJ remains ready to investigate and prosecute cases, including those recommended by the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI), adding: “In pursuit of the truth, the Department will always go where the evidence leads.” Sotto also said he believes the Palace-backed ICI has served its purpose, providing ample findings for the DOJ and the Ombudsman to continue their work. The IPC would also be empowered to file complaints against officials or government personnel who attempt to obstruct investigations into corruption in government projects. Meanwhile, the Department of Justice (DOJ) expressed support for proposals to create a “more permanent commission” to strengthen anti-corruption efforts in government infrastructure projects. DOJ spokesperson Atty. added: “The IPC bill will aid soon and more so for future investigations.”
