MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has appointed Rodolfo Azurin Jr., the former chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP), as the new special adviser and investigator for the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI).
The announcement was made on Monday by Malacañang, highlighting that Azurin’s extensive leadership experience will help improve the commission’s mandate of ensuring accountability and transparency in the management of public funds.
Appointment Details
Azurin will assume his new role after completing his personal and administrative arrangements, according to a statement from the Office of the President (OP). This move comes after Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong resigned from his concurrent position as ICI special adviser, citing potential conflict of interest concerns related to his role as a local official.
President Marcos thanked Magalong for his efforts during his brief time at the ICI, noting that his work in safeguarding the integrity of the commission had been vital in the government’s fight against corruption in infrastructure projects.
Azurin’s Background and Experience
A graduate of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) Makatao Class of 1989, Azurin served as the 28th PNP chief after being appointed by President Marcos in August 2022. His term as PNP chief ended in April 2023 when he reached the mandatory retirement age.
During his tenure at the PNP, Azurin introduced the MKK=K formula (Malasakit + Kaayusan + Kapayapaan = Kaunlaran) or “Compassion + Order + Peace = Progress,” which served as a guiding principle for the police force. He also supported programs that aimed to foster cooperation between the police and local communities to improve peace and order.
Magalong’s Resignation and Contributions
Benjamin Magalong, who was appointed as the first special adviser to the ICI, stepped down after concerns were raised about the potential conflict of interest between his roles as both the mayor of Baguio City and an adviser to a national body like the ICI.
While his time with the commission was short, Magalong helped lay the groundwork for anti-corruption efforts related to infrastructure projects, and his leadership was praised by President Marcos.
Looking Ahead
With Azurin’s appointment, the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) aims to enhance efforts in monitoring public funds for infrastructure projects and ensuring that they are used efficiently and without corruption. His extensive leadership background is expected to guide the ICI towards more robust transparency practices.
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