ICI looking for ‘solution’ to allow transparency
The Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) said it is looking for a solution that will balance the need for transparency and protect individual rights, amid calls to open to the public its inquiry into corruption in infrastructure projects.
In a statement on Sunday, ICI executive director Brian Keith Hosaka said the fact-finding body was aware of requests to make its meetings available online but wanted to avoid trial by media.
“The initial hearings, so far, are for purposes of case buildup for criminal, civil, and administrative action. These cases will then be eventually referred to the appropriate agency for action, such as the Ombudsman,” the former Supreme Court spokesperson said.
“The ICI is avoiding trial by publicity, and will not allow it[self] to be used for any political leverage or agenda by any individual or group,” he added.
Hosaka said he would still discuss the issue with the commission to look for a “solution that will both balance the request for more transparency and the protection of individual rights.”
He said that while the task of the ICI is “no doubt enormous and may seem overwhelming,” it will “remain surgical and deliberate in the performance of its mandate so that those who are truly responsible will be brought to justice with solid evidence and under the rule of law.”
ICI composition
The ICI, created by President Marcos under Executive Order No. 94, is mandated to investigate anomalies in government flood control and related projects in the last 10 years.
Former Supreme Court Justice Andres Reyes Jr. serves as chair, while former Department of Public Works and Highways Secretary Rogelio “Babes” Singson and SGV and Co. country managing partner Rossana Fajardo are members.
Hosaka, who is also the current commissioner of the Governance Commission for Government-Owned or -Controlled Corporations, acts as executive director.
Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong was appointed special adviser, but he resigned on Sept. 26, as two Baguio City government projects in 2022 were found to be among those granted to embattled contractor-couple Curlee and Sarah Discaya. Some critics had earlier called for his resignation, citing as well his mayoral duties.
On Saturday, two groups of local officials, including former Vice President and Naga City Mayor Leni Robredo and Pasig City Mayor Vico Sotto, issued statements in support of Magalong, citing his “track record of transparency and good governance.”
Credibility
Those who have called for public hearings include Edwin Lacierda, former spokesperson of the late former President Benigno Aquino III, who said doing so would help build credibility for the commission.
“Integrity assurances from ICI are not enough. Transparency is the call of the times,” Lacierda wrote on X.
In contrast to the ICI, the hearings of the Senate blue ribbon committee and the House of Representatives infrastructure committee—which are also investigating alleged public works anomalies—have been livestreamed.
The House panel, however, recently suspended its probe, saying it was giving way to the ICI, while a member of the House, Ako Bicol Rep. Zaldy Co, is being pressured to return to the country after being accused of enriching himself from the government’s flood control and other projects. —WITH A REPORT FROM DEXTER CABALZA
