ICI continues private hearings on flood control irregularities, Villar summoned

The Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) is continuing its private hearings into alleged irregularities in flood control and public works projects.

ICI Executive Director Brian Keith Hosaka confirmed the commission's policy of maintaining confidentiality, citing concerns about "trial by publicity" and political influence.

He assured the public that the ICI is committed to uncovering the truth and will not tolerate any cover-up or whitewashing of the investigation, emphasizing the complexity of the alleged corruption.

However, Sen. Alan Peter Cayetano pushed for transparency and public accountability in the investigation, stating that the ICI's credibility depends on its methods.

Cayetano suggested that the commission could allow reporters to observe and take notes, similar to practices in U.S. courts, to ensure public access to information.

He cautioned that shielding the entire process from public view could undermine public trust in the ICI's conclusions.

Those summoned this week included former Public Works Secretary and Senator Mark A. Villar, along with contractors Pacifico F. Discaya II and his wife Cezarah Rowena C. Discaya.