Mayor Benjamin “Benjie” Magalong has resigned from his post at the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI), effective September 26, 2025, citing the need to safeguard the body’s independence and credibility.

In an official statement issued on September 27, Magalong clarified that there was no conflict of interest between his role as Baguio mayor and his position in the ICI, stressing that he has always upheld the highest standards of integrity in public service. However, he said recent developments have cast doubt on the Commission’s independence, which he described as the “bedrock of accountability.”

“I refuse to allow these doubts to weaken the ICI and its mandate. That is why I have chosen to step aside, not to abandon the fight, but to protect the very integrity of the fight,” Magalong said.

The mayor vowed to continue his crusade against corruption, recalling his past efforts in exposing wrongdoing in government, including the Mamasapano probe, the “ninja cops” controversy, and investigations into misuse of public funds. He underscored that corruption robs Filipinos of education, healthcare, infrastructure, and their future.

Magalong also appealed to the public to remain vigilant and united in the fight for transparency, accountability, and good governance, reminding Filipinos that the struggle against corruption will be long but winnable.

“The forces of corruption are deeply entrenched, but so too is the Filipino spirit of resilience and courage. The power of the people will always be stronger than the power of the few,” he said.