MANILA — Former Public Works and Highways Secretary Rogelio “Babes” Singson has submitted his resignation as commissioner of the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI), citing the intense stress of the post and new security risks, the commission’s chair confirmed Wednesday.
In a media briefing, ICI chair Andres Reyes Jr. said Singson’s resignation will take effect on Dec. 15 — though it may be extended to Dec. 31, depending on circumstances. Reyes said the former commissioner told him that “the very intense and stressful ICI work has taken its toll on his aging body,” adding that the security demands of the investigation contributed to his decision.
Singson was appointed to the ICI in September 2025, a few days before his 77th birthday, by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.. In that position, he was part of the government’s probe into alleged irregularities in infrastructure projects over the past decade.
He becomes the second high-profile departure from ICI, following the earlier exit of former Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong. Some lawmakers and critics already express concern that Singson’s resignation represents a “major blow” to the credibility of the commission’s ongoing investigations.
Despite his resignation, Reyes said the ICI’s work will continue, and that pending cases and evidence amassed so far remain valid. He added that there is no update yet on who will replace Singson.
At a critical time for the ICI — as it investigates alleged flood-control scandals and other large infrastructure irregularities — Singson’s departure raises fresh questions about the commission’s ability to follow through. Many now call on the administration to show resolve, appoint a replacement with equal expertise, and commit to transparent, thorough investigations
