The 16 senators have signed the committee report for the proposal to create a more powerful Independent People’s Commission (IPC). It aims to replace the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) and give it broader powers to investigate anomalies in government infrastructure projects.
Sen. Francis Pangilinan, as sponsor, urged the speedy passage of the bill to create a “people’s watchdog” against corruption. Among the signatories were Senate President Vicente Sotto III, Senators Erwin Tulfo, Risa Hontiveros, Panfilo Lacson, Juan Miguel Zubiri, Sherwin Gatchalian, Bong Go, Pia Cayetano, Jinggoy Estrada, JV Ejercito, Mark Villar, Loren Legarda, Bam Aquino, Joel Villanueva and Robin Padilla.
The bill would give the IPC subpoena powers, the ability to issue lookout and hold departure orders, grant witness immunity, and have full access to all government records. It could also request access to bank records upon court approval and temporarily freeze questionable funds or assets.
IPC has the power to recommend blacklisting of contractors involved in anomalies, suspend officials while under investigation, and deputize the PNP, NBI and other agencies to protect witnesses. DOJ and Ombudsman will also be ordered to form a special prosecution team.
The commission will be headed by a retired Supreme Court justice along with an accountant, architect, engineer and civil society representative. The IPC has a sunset clause and will remain in effect until June 30, 2028, unless extended by law.
