Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong (left) resigned as ICI adviser citing conflict-of-interest concerns. Retired Philippine National Police chief Rodolfo Azurin Jr. was named as his replacement. (Photos from City Government of Baguio and Philippine National Police)
Mayor Benjamin Magalong said he wanted to avoid conflict-of-interest concerns that may arise from his dual role as Baguio mayor and ICI adviser, citing this as the reason for his resignation from the watchdog group investigating public works projects.
MANILA – Baguio City Mayor Benjamin “Benjie” Magalong has resigned as special adviser and investigator of the newly created Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI), citing concerns that his continued role might affect the body’s integrity.
Magalong stepped down on September 26, 2025, just eleven days after his appointment. He said that while he denied any conflict of interest, his dual role as mayor and investigator could cast doubt on the ICI’s independence.
The concern stemmed from the fact that the ICI is mandated to investigate public works and flood-control projects nationwide, including those in Baguio City and the Cordillera region.
As mayor, Magalong oversees local projects that could fall within the commission’s scope. Even if he had no direct involvement in awarding contracts, his simultaneous role as investigator risked creating the perception that he was reviewing projects tied to his own administration.
“I do not want my presence to compromise the credibility of the commission,” Magalong said. “All my actions have been aboveboard and consistent with the law, but I believe stepping aside is the best way to protect the integrity of this process.
Azurin named as replacement
Malacañang confirmed that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. accepted the resignation and appointed retired Philippine National Police chief Rodolfo “Jun” Azurin Jr. to replace Magalong.
According to the Office of the President, Azurin will assume his duties as ICI special adviser and investigator once he concludes his personal and administrative arrangements.
The Palace thanked Magalong for his “service and contributions” during his brief tenure, noting that “his efforts in safeguarding the integrity and credibility of the Commission have been vital to the government’s campaign against corruption in infrastructure projects.”
It added that the administration is confident Azurin’s “experience and leadership will further strengthen the Commission’s mandate to uphold accountability and transparency in the use of public funds.”
From PNP chief to infrastructure watchdog
Rodolfo “Jun” Azurin Jr. is a retired police general, born in Tarlac and raised in Benguet. A graduate of the Philippine Military Academy’s Class of 1989, known as “Makatao,” he rose through the ranks of the Philippine National Police, serving in both regional commands and national headquarters.
He was appointed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. as the 28th Chief of the PNP in 2022, a post he held until his retirement in 2023.
During his term, he oversaw internal reforms that required senior officers to submit courtesy resignations as part of efforts to clean up the force.
About the ICI
The ICI was created through Executive Order No. 94 on September 11, 2025, to investigate alleged anomalies in flood-control and infrastructure projects dating back to 2015. It has subpoena powers, may compel testimony, and can recommend cases for prosecution to the Department of Justice or the Office of the Ombudsman.
The commission is chaired by former Supreme Court Justice Andres Reyes Jr., with former Public Works Secretary Rogelio Singson and auditing executive Rossana Fajardo as members. Brian Keith Hosaka serves as executive director.
Support for Magalong’s decision
The Palace Communications Office described Magalong’s resignation as “unfortunate” but assured the public that the commission remains fully functional.
The Mayors for Good Governance coalition also expressed support for him, praising his decision as consistent with his reputation for integrity.
The ICI is expected to play a central role in restoring trust in infrastructure spending amid scrutiny of flood-control projects worth billions of pesos.
Magalong, who remains Baguio mayor, said he will continue supporting anti-corruption efforts “in whatever capacity possible.”
