MANILA — ICI flood control report Philippines is now under scrutiny as lawmakers, including Davao Representative Paolo Duterte, seek access to its findings to clarify concerns surrounding alleged irregularities in multi-billion peso flood control projects.

Davao City 1st District Representative Paolo Duterte, along with several lawmakers linked to the Duterte family, has formally requested copies of the flood control report prepared by the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI). The move comes as scrutiny intensifies over the implementation of flood mitigation projects following widespread flooding incidents in various parts of the country.

The Independent Commission for Infrastructure, or ICI, was established under the directive of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to review and investigate major infrastructure projects, particularly those related to flood control. The commission’s formation followed public outcry over persistent flooding despite significant government spending on drainage systems, flood barriers, and other mitigation efforts.

Lawmakers said access to the ICI report is essential for ensuring accountability and determining whether public funds have been used efficiently. They emphasized the need for transparency, noting that flood control projects involve billions of pesos in government allocations and are critical to protecting communities from natural disasters.

In their request, the legislators also pointed to the importance of understanding the findings of the commission, particularly any identified lapses in project planning, execution, or monitoring. They said the report could provide valuable insights that may help guide future policy decisions and infrastructure improvements.

Concerns over flood control projects have been raised in recent months, with some sectors alleging possible irregularities in procurement processes and project implementation. These issues have contributed to growing calls for a comprehensive review of how funds for infrastructure are managed and utilized.

Meanwhile, officials have reiterated that the creation of the ICI reflects the administration’s commitment to transparency and good governance. The commission is expected to submit findings that could lead to reforms in infrastructure planning and stricter monitoring of government-funded projects.

Public reaction has been mixed, with some groups welcoming the lawmakers’ move as a step toward accountability, while others have called for faster disclosure of the report’s contents. Advocacy groups have also stressed the urgency of addressing flood-related issues, particularly in urban areas that remain vulnerable during heavy rains.

The issue has also sparked broader discussions about disaster preparedness and long-term infrastructure planning in the Philippines, a country frequently affected by typhoons and flooding. Experts say that beyond investigating past projects, there is a need to adopt more sustainable and resilient approaches to flood management.

As the call for the release of the ICI report gains traction, observers say its findings could play a crucial role in shaping future infrastructure policies and restoring public confidence in government projects aimed at mitigating flood risks.