Bicol Saro Partylist Representative and House Committee on Infrastructure member Terry Ridon said the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) should be given time to pursue those linked to anomalous flood control projects and build “airtight cases” that would lead to actual convictions.
In a chance interview, Ridon urged the public to trust the ICI’s process, emphasizing that the commission should prioritize accuracy and thoroughness over speed.
“We don’t want them to be fast but also fail kasi malinaw naman ang instructions ng pangulo, sabi niya, we have to be able to build airtight cases to be able to convict everyone involved. Hindi natin kailangan magmadali sa bagay na ito,” Ridon said.
The lawmaker also renewed his call for greater transparency, suggesting that parts of the ICI’s proceedings be made public or televised — particularly the reading of affidavits and the questioning by ICI members.
He clarified, however, that executive sessions or sensitive deliberations may still remain confidential for security and legal reasons.
“Yung pag-schedule nila ng mga pumupunta, resource persons, invitees, araw-araw naman silang may ini-interview. Pabayaan na natin silang gawin yung trabaho nila,” he added.
Ridon said he may soon speak with his co-chairs in the House Committee on Infrastructure to formally request the ICI to determine which portions of the inquiry can be opened to the public.
Earlier, ICI Executive Director Brian Hosaka explained that the commission chose to hold confidential hearings to avoid trial by publicity, political interference, and to protect the rights of individuals involved in the investigation.
Under Executive Order No. 94 signed by President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., the ICI has the authority to investigate and submit its findings to the appropriate agencies that can file and prosecute cases against those implicated in infrastructure-related anomalies.
For now, Ridon said, what’s most important is that the ICI works carefully and independently — ensuring that once cases are filed, “they will stand in court and deliver justice.”