Presidential son Sandro Marcos testifies before ICI in closed-door session

HOUSE Majority Leader Ferdinand Alexander “Sandro” A. Marcos III, the president’s son, voluntarily appeared before the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) and testified in an executive session.

“I came here on a voluntary basis so I could help the ICI with their investigation,” Mr. Marcos told reporters at the ICI. “I am not served with a subpoena. I am not subject to any investigation. However, I’m willing to give and tell the ICI anything that may further the investigation.”

The lawmaker was implicated in the ongoing infrastructure corruption scandal after former House Committee on Appropriations Chairman Elizaldy “Zaldy” S. Co released videos alleging that Mr. Marcos orchestrated the insertion of at least P50 billion worth of public works projects into the national budget over the past three years.

The alleged insertions reportedly occurred during the final stages of budget deliberations, particularly at the bicameral conference committee level. Mr. Marcos has denied the allegations.

His legal counsel, Michelle Lazaro, said a closed-door session was requested to protect critical information that could compromise the commission’s investigation

“I’m here to lend anything that I know that will aid the ICI,” Mr. Marcos told reporters. “I am not hiding anything and am happy to assist in any way.” He added the commission can release the video of his testimony if they deem it safe.

When asked about Mr. Co’s claims, the Ilocos Norte lawmaker called them a political ploy aimed at destabilizing the government. “Honestly, to my knowledge, no, it’s not possible… the allegations are untrue. I did not do any such thing,” he said.

“It’s pure fabrication and pure lies. It’s a move that reeks of desperation. It’s a political ploy. And I’ve already attributed it to attempts at destabilization of the government.”

Asked whether the ICI should investigate his father, he said, “I don’t want to speak on behalf of the ICI.”

Outgoing ICI Commissioner Rogelio “Babes” L. Singson said in a separate briefing on Thursday that not all sessions could be livestreamed. “Our principle is to follow the evidence. We cannot livestream all hearings because we need to verify information. Families will be harmed if there is no sufficient evidence,” he explained. — Erika Mae P. Sinaking