ICI keeps flood control hearings closed despite transparency calls

The Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) will continue to keep its hearings on alleged irregularities in flood control and other public works projects behind closed doors despite mounting calls for transparency from lawmakers and the public.

- By MARK ERNEST VILLEZA

ICI executive director Brian Keith Hosaka said the commission’s policy “remains the same” even after appeals to livestream or open the hearings to the public.

“The commission is very much aware of the request and the position of some people asking for more transparency,” Hosaka told reporters yesterday at the ICI office. “But the position or the policy of the commission still remains the same based on the reasons that I already explained before.”

Hosaka reiterated that the ICI prefers to keep its proceedings private to prevent “trial by publicity” and avoid any undue political influence.

When asked if there were any moves within the commission to revisit its policy, Hosaka replied, “Right now, there’s none.”