MANILA – The Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) is seeking written authorization from Ilocos Norte Rep. Sandro Marcos to publicly release the video of his recent testimony, as the probe into alleged budget insertions in flood control projects intensifies. The request, made by ICI Executive Director Brian Keith Hosaka on behalf of Chair Andres Reyes Jr., underscores the tension between transparency demands and the confidentiality Marcos insisted upon during his appearance.
Marcos, son of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., testified in a closed-door executive session on December 4, 2025, following accusations by resigned Ako Bicol Rep. Elizaldy “Zaldy” Co that he funneled at least P50 billion in public works projects across the 2023, 2024, and 2025 budgets. Co’s claims, detailed in viral videos, allege the insertions benefited Marcos’ family interests in Ilocos and Eastern Visayas, part of a broader “trillion-peso” graft scheme tied to the P20-billion flood control scandal.
Hosaka explained that Marcos had explicitly stated under oath his objection to livestreaming or public broadcasting of the testimony, limiting the commission’s ability to share the recording without consent. “The commission respects the witness’s preference for confidentiality during the executive session,” Hosaka said, quoting Reyes. “However, to uphold public interest in the probe, we are formally requesting Rep. Marcos’ permission to release the video.”
In his testimony, Marcos categorically denied the allegations, calling them “false” and “fantastical.” “I am not hiding anything,” he affirmed, vowing full cooperation while emphasizing the need to protect the investigation’s integrity.
The ICI, formed by Marcos to investigate infrastructure anomalies, has filed six referrals to the Ombudsman, including graft and malversation charges against contractors like Sarah Discaya. The flood scandal—plagued by ghost projects and substandard dikes—has sparked nationwide outrage, including the Trillion Peso March, and prompted Marcos to vow “no sacred cows” in accountability efforts.
As the commission awaits Marcos’ response, the request highlights the probe’s delicate balance: Uncovering corruption while navigating political sensitivities. With hearings resuming December 3-5 and potential warrants looming, the video’s fate could tip the scales toward greater openness—or deeper shadows—in the graft grapple.
Key Figures in the Probe:
| Figure | Allegation Tie | Status/Response |
|---|---|---|
| Sandro Marcos | P50B insertions (Co claims) | Denied as “fantastical”; testified Dec. 4 |
| Zaldy Co | Mastermind of budget diversions | Fugitive; videos fuel probe |
| Andres Reyes Jr. | ICI Chair | Seeking video release permission |