Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong has resigned from the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) two weeks after his appointment, after Malacañang clarified that his role was only as a “special adviser” and not as a lead investigator.

“Palilinawagin po natin ang pagtalaga po sa kanya ng Pangulo ay bilang Special Adviser at hindi po lead investigator or in any other form na pag-iimbestiga,” Palace spokesperson Usec. Claire Castro said.

Hours later, Magalong tendered his resignation. In his letter to President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr., he said the Palace’s statement weakened the mandate given to him under his appointment.

He added that doubts on his role made it clear that his services were no longer needed. Magalong also apologized to Baguio residents, saying his duties with the ICI had kept him busy.

The Palace also revealed that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. ordered a review of Magalong’s appointment, citing criticisms that an elected mayor cannot hold another government post. A labor group earlier argued that his dual role violated the Constitution.

Concerns of a possible conflict of interest were aso raised, with the ICI adviser role coinciding with a local project in Baguio handled by Saint Gerard Construction Company, which had been flagged in alleged irregularities.

Magalong denied any conflict, saying the project followed legal processes.

He said he resigned to protect the integrity of the ICI, adding that it wasn't easy to resign but believes that he must.

Magalong said he will continue his fight against corruption outside the ICI.

Meanwhile, the Office of the President announced the appointment of former Philippine National Police chief Gen. Rodolfo Azurin Jr. as the new ICI special adviser and investigator.