Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong Resigns as Adviser to Independent Commission for Infrastructure

Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong has stepped down as special adviser to the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI), a body tasked with investigating alleged irregularities in multi-billion peso government flood-control projects.

Magalong’s resignation, announced Friday, came less than two weeks after he was appointed to the advisory role. His exit follows Malacañang’s directive to review the legality of his concurrent post, raising questions over potential conflict-of-interest issues while serving as a sitting mayor.

Background of Appointment

Magalong, a retired police general and former Philippine National Police chief for the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG), was tapped as adviser to the ICI to lend expertise in fact-finding and organizational oversight. His appointment was seen as a boost to the commission’s credibility, especially amid mounting public scrutiny of alleged kickbacks in major infrastructure projects.

Rumors and Clarification

Prior to his resignation, Magalong had repeatedly denied speculation that he was also leaving his post as Baguio mayor, stressing that his advisory role at the ICI would not interfere with his elected mandate. However, the Palace’s legal team flagged the matter for review, citing constitutional and ethical concerns about dual responsibilities in government.

What Happens Next

With Magalong’s departure, the ICI is expected to continue its investigation without his input. No replacement has yet been announced. The commission remains at the center of high-profile hearings involving alleged overpricing, kickbacks, and questionable contract awards in flood-control projects nationwide.

Magalong has yet to release a detailed statement explaining his decision to quit the advisory role, but sources suggest it was prompted by both legal considerations and political pressure.