LINGAYEN, Pangasinan – A member of the provincial board of Batanes has sought an investigation over infrastructure projects implemented in the smallest and least populated province of the country.

Board Member John Dave Ablat said this will ensure transparency, accountability, and proper use of public funds.

Ablat filed Proposed Resolution No. 229 seeking to conduct an inquiry in aid of legislation to scrutinize ongoing and completed infrastructure initiatives in the province.

The resolution pointed out the importance of ensuring that these projects are free from corruption and irregularities, aligning with the national government's push for a clean and effective public service.

"This move is not about pointing fingers or humiliating everyone. But if, along the way, we discover something fishy, we owe it to the people to expose whoever are involved," Ablat said.

He noted that if the inquiry will be allowed by the provincial legislature, it is all about seeking the truth.

This will also make sure that every centavo spent on local infrastructure project truly benefits the people of Batanes.

"We always boast around the honesty of the Ivatans. This is one of our way to prove on whether or not honesty still prevails in our islands," he said.

Ablat, chairman of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan Committee on Infrastructure and Public Works, as well as the Committee on Good Governance, underscored the importance of transparency in local development efforts.

As the youngest member of the provincial board, he feels a strong sense of responsibility to uphold integrity and protect the public interest.

He stressed that this action supports President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr.'s efforts on investigating the implementation of different infrastructure projects across the country.

"The national government is already looking into how infrastructure funds are being utilized. We, in the local government must also do our part," Ablat said.

The local legislator plans to invite key officials and stakeholders to the inquiry, including representatives from the Batanes District Engineering Office, Provincial Engineering Office, other concerned agencies, and local government units in the province.

"This is about good governance," Ablat said. "We owe it to the Ivatans to ensure that their money is being spent properly."

Ablat cited data retrieved from the provisions of the General Appropriations Act of years 2020 to 2025 that Batanes received a staggering amount of more than P3.6 billion for projects under the DPWH.