MANILA, Philippines — Baguio City Mayor Benjamin “Benjie” Magalong has formally resigned as Special Adviser to the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI), effective September 26, 2025, citing concerns over the commission’s independence and credibility.
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| Photo courtesy: Facebook/Benjie Magalong |
In his official statement released on September 27, Magalong stressed that his decision was not made lightly but was necessary to preserve the integrity of the ICI.
“Once and for all, I would like to make it clear that there is no conflict of interest in my role. My work as Mayor of Baguio and my service with the ICI have always been guided by one principle: the highest standards of integrity in public service. However, recent developments have cast doubt on the independence of the Commission. Independence is the bedrock of accountability, and without it, our credibility is compromised,” he said.
Protecting the Integrity of the Commission
Magalong explained that he chose to step down not to abandon the fight against corruption, but to safeguard the ICI’s mandate.
“I refuse to allow these doubts to weaken the ICI and its mandate. That is why I have chosen to step aside, not to abandon the fight, but to protect the very integrity of the fight,” he added.
The mayor emphasized his long-standing commitment to truth and justice, citing past battles such as the Mamasapano investigation, the “ninja cops” probe, and his stance against traditional politics.
He also issued a strong call against corruption, declaring that every stolen peso translates to an unfinished school, a hospital without medicine, or a collapsed bridge that betrays the nation’s hopes.
Call for Vigilance and Unity
Magalong urged Filipinos to remain vigilant and united in the fight against corruption.
“We should never allow corrupt political leaders and bureaucrats to steal the future of our children, and most importantly, the future of our country,” he warned.
“The forces of corruption are deeply entrenched, but so too is the Filipino spirit of resilience and courage. Change will not happen overnight. As long as we remain vigilant, as long as we continue to resist, and as long as we keep faith in our country, then we will prevail. The power of the people will always be stronger than the power of the few.”
Background on the ICI
The Independent Commission for Infrastructure was created through Executive Order No. 94, signed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on September 11, 2025.
The body was tasked to investigate and recommend charges against government officials, employees, or private individuals involved in alleged corruption in flood control and related projects of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) over the past decade.
The commission is chaired by former Supreme Court Justice Andres B. Reyes Jr., with former DPWH Secretary Rogelio L. Singson and SGV & Co. Managing Partner Rossana A. Fajardo as members. Magalong was appointed as Special Adviser and investigator, owing to his track record in fact-finding and anti-corruption probes.
What’s Next
With Magalong stepping down, questions now arise on how the ICI will maintain credibility and independence amid public scrutiny.
Despite his resignation, Magalong assured the public that his “crusade against corruption continues”, whether inside or outside the commission.
— The Summit Express