MANILA — Malacañang hit back at Vice President Sara Duterte for casting doubt on the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI), which is investigating alleged irregularities in the use of public works funds for flood control projects.

Palace Press Officer Claire Castro described Duterte’s remarks as “unfortunate,” saying they only serve to undermine the administration’s campaign for transparency and accountability.

“Ang tanong: may kinatatakutan ba siyang mabunyag sa ginagawang pag-iimbestiga kaya pilit niyang sinisiraan ang integridad ng ICI?” Castro said. (“The question is: is she afraid of what might be uncovered in the investigation, that’s why she’s trying to discredit the ICI?”)

Duterte earlier questioned the creation of the commission, arguing that the Office of the President could have managed the investigation internally using confidential funds instead of establishing a separate body.

Castro countered that such statements only cast unnecessary doubt on a legitimate effort to root out corruption.

“Kaawa-awa ang isang public servant na puro haka-haka lang ang sinasabi para makasira sa gobyerno,” she said. (“It’s disheartening when a public servant resorts to speculation just to discredit the government.”)

She also dismissed Duterte’s allegations, saying, “Ang mga tahi-tahi niyang kwento ay walang halaga. Hindi na dapat intindihin pa.” (“Her fabricated stories have no value and shouldn’t be taken seriously.”)

Defending the ICI’s integrity, Castro stressed that the commission is composed of non-politicians and independent experts “recognized for their professionalism and integrity.” She added that public officials who have nothing to hide should fully support transparent investigations.