MANILA — The House Committee on Government Reorganization is set to conduct a technical briefing on measures seeking to create a commission that would investigate alleged irregularities in government infrastructure projects.

Committee Chair and Bulacan 6th District Rep. Salvador Pleyto Sr. said the briefing was essential as the panel prepares for its regular meetings on November 11 and 13, where lawmakers will further examine the proposed measures.

“This briefing is only the beginning of our legislative journey,” Pleyto said. “The gravity of establishing a body like the Independent Commission Against Infrastructure Corruption cannot be overstated, and the work done today ensures we proceed with a clear understanding of all facets involved.”

Among the measures discussed were House Bill No. 5699, authored by Navotas Rep. Tobias “Toby” Tiangco, which seeks to create the Independent Commission Against Infrastructure Corruption (ICIAC), and House Bill No. 4453, filed by Representatives Leila M. De Lima, Adrian Michael A. Amatong, Arlene “Kaka” J. Bag-Ao, Percival V. Cenda, Jose Manuel Tadeo “Chel” Diokno, Edgar R. Erice, Jaime R. Fresnedi, Dadah Kiram Ismula, Cielo Krisel B. Lagman, Paolo Henry M. Marcoleta, Elijah R. San Fernando, and Alfonso V. Umali Jr.

HB 4453 proposes to establish an independent body with broad investigative and subpoena powers to look into the alleged misappropriation of funds for flood control and other infrastructure projects.

Representatives from the Independent Commission on Infrastructure, the Office of the Ombudsman, the Commission on Audit, the Department of Justice, the Department of the Interior and Local Government, and the Department of Budget and Management attended the briefing.