MANILA, Philippines — Malacañang on Friday said the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) has already received its P41 million budget for 2025.
At a briefing, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro was asked if the fund is now in the hands of the super body after Rogelio “Babes” Singson tendered his resignation as one of its commissioners due to lack of budget and intense, stressful work.
“Yes, it’s with them,” she said in Filipino.
Castro also responded to Baguio City Mayor and former ICI Adviser Benjamin Magalong’s statement that the P30,000 he spent for the group has not yet been refunded.
“Regarding what he said that he still has something missing, we have already requested—since the funds are already there—that whatever shortages or remaining amounts that need to be paid to those who should receive them, should be paid immediately,” the Palace official said, speaking Filipino.
“And the President has not been lacking, because everything that the ICI needs—every form of assistance that can come from the President—is being provided. And regarding who else might resign, perhaps it’s better if you ask him. He is the one who gave the information,” she added in Filipino.
No choice but to let go
Meanwhile, Castro said that Public Works Secretary Vince Dizon initially tried to convince Singson not to leave the ICI.
“At dahil nga muli, may concern po si Secretary Babes, iginagalang po iyan ng ating Pangulo at nagpapasalamat po tayo sa napakagaling pong serbisyo po ni Sec. Babes Singson,” Castro said.(And once again, since Secretary Babes has a concern, the President respects that, and we express our gratitude for the excellent service of Sec. Babes Singson.)
Singson’s resignation is effective Dec. 15 but “could be extended” until Dec. 31. Born on Sept. 16, 1948, Singson is 77 years old. /jpv
