Former Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Rogelio “Babes” Singson has resigned as a member of the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) due to the stressful nature of the probe body’s work.

In a press conference on Wednesday, ICI Chairman Andres Reyes announced that Singson’s resignation takes effect on December 15, subject to possible extension until the 31st.

Rumors of a commissioner’s plans to step away from the independent body first began circulating after Caloocan 2nd District Rep. Edgar Erice said two months ago that one of them had begun to lose hope due to the ICI’s limited powers.

Singson, meanwhile, cited “very intense” and “stressful work” in the commission, which has compromised his health.

“He mentioned the very intense and stressful ICI work has taken its toll on his aging body,” Reyes said.

When asked whether a replacement for Singson has been found, Reyes said he is leaving the decision to the Palace and is awaiting the acceptance of Singson’s resignation.

In September, Baguio Mayor Benjamin Magalong also resigned as special adviser to the ICI, following remarks from Palace Press Officer Claire Castro, who questioned his investigation into flood control anomalies, when he was not an investigator for the commission.