Malacañang on Saturday said it regrets the resignation of Baguio Mayor Benjamin Magalong from the Independent Commission on Infrastructure (ICI), but assured the public that the body’s work will continue despite his departure.
“It is unfortunate Mayor Magalong resigned,” Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Secretary Dave Gomez said in a statement.
He emphasized that the public’s expectations of the ICI go beyond any single individual, with the commission remaining capable and committed to fulfilling its mandate.
“The demand of the Filipino people from the Independent Commission on Infrastructure is higher than any one person,” Gomez said.
“The commission, made up of distinguished professionals with unassailable integrity, has hit the ground running on day one,” he added.
The Palace also reaffirmed its respect for the ICI’s independence and called on the public to support the commission as it continues its work.
“The Palace respects the autonomy of the commission. Let’s allow them to do their job and deliver on their mandate,” Gomez added.
Magalong tendered his resignation from the ICI on Friday, stating Malacañang’s statements about his appointment undermined the body’s independence and made his continued service no longer tenable.
In a letter to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. dated September 26, Magalong said the Palace’s pronouncements undermined the role and mandate entrusted to him, adding that circumstances had cast doubt on the ICI’s independence.
He stressed that his primary responsibility remains with the people of Baguio, with his resignation taking effect immediately.
