President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Monday affirmed the appointment of Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong as Special Adviser to the Independent Commission on Infrastructure (ICI), citing his investigative acumen and reputation for integrity.

Speaking at a Palace press briefing, the President described Magalong as “a good investigator,” recalling the mayor’s swift submission of a detailed report during a recent visit to Baguio regarding questionable flood control projects.

“Mayor Benjie greeted me with a comprehensive report the moment I arrived. He’s been working on this for some time and has a lot to contribute,” Marcos said.

The President also highlighted Magalong’s role as former chief of the Philippine National Police Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (PNP-CIDG), where he led the probe into the 2015 Mamasapano clash that claimed the lives of over 60 individuals, including 44 members of the PNP Special Action Force.

“That’s when I came to know of him and saw that he has integrity,” Marcos added.

The ICI was formed to investigate alleged irregularities in flood control and infrastructure projects. President Marcos named former Supreme Court Associate Justice Andres Reyes Jr. as chairperson, with former DPWH Secretary Rogelio Singson and SGV & Co. Country Managing Partner Rossana Fajardo joining as commission members.

The commission is expected to play a key role in restoring public trust in infrastructure development and ensuring accountability in government projects.