The Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) announced that there will be no public hearings or livestreams next week.
ICI Executive Director Atty. Brian Hosaka said, “There will be no public hearings next week despite earlier assurances that the commission’s proceedings would soon be livestreamed.” He added that the break is due to the unavailability of ICI member Babes Singson.
Hosaka also said, “The commission is still finalizing the guidelines for the livestreaming setup, including the platform to be used and whether the public will be given access to previous hearings.”
ICI Chairperson Justice Andres B. Reyes said the commission plans to begin livestreaming its proceedings soon but needs to finalize internal rules first. “Before we do so, the ICI would need to study and draft the rules of procedure and parameters to allow for live streaming, taking into consideration sensitive information and the constitutional rights of invited resource persons,” Reyes said.
He explained that confidentiality remains a priority to ensure the integrity of the investigation. “The proceedings of the Commission would be confidential to avoid trial by publicity, political grandstanding, sensationalism, and disinformation. These concerns remain valid, and protecting the integrity of the investigation is still paramount,” Reyes stated.
Reyes added that all “evidence and testimonies must undergo thorough verification before we can send referrals to the Office of the Ombudsman. These should hold up in court.”
In his official statement, Justice Reyes also addressed reports circulating about an alleged 1% voucher from the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Testing Office. He clarified, “This was based on the report submitted to us by Brice Hernandez. It is important to note that this information is only alleged. This matter will still need to be verified by the Commission.”
He reiterated the ICI’s commitment to transparency while stressing due process. “We hear the clamor of the Filipino people for more transparency, and we are pushing to livestream the hearings as soon as possible,” Reyes said. “But we must first ensure that the rules are in place and that every procedure respects confidentiality and fairness.”
