The Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) has decided to keep its hearings on alleged anomalies in flood control and public works projects closed to the public despite increasing demands for transparency.
ICI executive director Brian Keith Hosaka said the policy aims to prevent “trial by publicity” and maintain the integrity of proceedings, though some lawmakers and citizens argue that secrecy undermines public trust.
Senate President Tito Sotto and actress Agot Isidro were among those urging the commission to livestream its hearings, citing the public’s right to accountability since taxpayers fund the inquiry.
Hosaka clarified that completed cases and reports submitted to the Office of the Ombudsman are made public, even if ongoing hearings remain confidential.
The ICI is set to hear testimonies this week from former DPWH secretary Mark Villar, contractor couple Curlee and Sarah Discaya, and former DPWH undersecretary Roberto Bernardo over alleged irregularities in infrastructure projects.
Source: PhilNews24 | October 10, 2025
