Senator Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan has urged the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) to open its hearings to the public, stressing the importance of transparency and accountability.
According to Pangilinan, the ICI’s decision to bar the public from monitoring its proceedings online was not a wise move.
This came after the commission argued that restricting livestream access was necessary to avoid “trial by publicity” and to prevent the misuse of hearings for personal or political agendas.
“I urge the ICI to reconsider this decision. Transparency is fundamental to public accountability. With all due respect, the decision of the ICI to prevent the public from monitoring its proceedings online is ill-advised,” Pangilinan said.
The senator, who also chairs the Senate Committee on Justice and Human Rights, underscored that corruption scandals stem from the shortcomings of the justice system.
He further emphasized the need for faster trials, heavier penalties, and the classification of corruption as a non-bailable offense to ensure accountability and good governance.
“Please open your proceedings to the public. Do not test the people’s desire to know the truth. Baka magising ang mga miyembro ng ICI bukas at nag ra-rally na ang tao sa harap ng mga bahay ninyo,” he warned.