Former Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Rodolfo Azurin, Jr. officially assumed the role of special adviser for the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI), the team assigned to investigate the anomalous flood control projects involving government officials and private contractors.
On Monday, October 13, Azurin took his oath before Court of Appeals Associate Justice Pedro Corales and the members of the commission.
The Office of the President appointed him last month to replace Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong, who resigned from his position over the legitimacy of his designation.
“Every year, countless Filipinos endure the consequences of substandard and fraudulent public works, roads, bridges, and flood control systems that fail when we need them most. The ICI was established to end this cycle of negligence and betrayal,” said Azurin.
Azurin emphasized the significance of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive and a memorandum from the Office of the Executive Secretary, which mandates all government officials to support the ICI.
He described this initiative as a clear demonstration of the administration’s commitment to improving the lives of Filipinos.
“This is a defining moment in our nation’s history. The Philippine National Police, Armed Forces of the Philippines, and National Bureau of Investigation are now being called upon to take an active role in uncovering the truth behind the anomalous flood control and infrastructure projects under the DPWH. Projects that have long burdened our people with grief, loss, and despair,” he said.
The former PNP chief advocated for the public to seek accountability by embracing principles of truth, unity, and justice, rather than resorting to protests or rallies.
“Across the country, voices from all sectors are rising—citizens, workers, professionals, and youth alike, urging our military and police to join this crusade against corruption. Their call is valid and their cause is just, yet we must remember: real change cannot be achieved through division, chaos, or violence,” he said.
“We have seen in our history that revolutions in the streets may topple governments, but they do not always heal a nation,” Azurin emphasized.
