The visit of a US Embassy official to the office of the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) in Taguig on Friday sparked criticism from various groups questioning the commission’s transparency, as it continues to decline requests to publicize its hearings on alleged irregularities in government projects.
ICI Executive Director Brian Hosaka confirmed that Michael Keheller, acting deputy chief of mission of the US Embassy, visited their office for what he described as an “inquiry.”
“We explained to him the mandate of the ICI based on EO 94 and at the same time what we have done so far,” Hosaka said.
However, progressive groups lambasted the meeting, calling it inappropriate for a foreign diplomat to engage with the commission while Filipinos remain barred from viewing its proceedings.
The Pambansang Lakas ng Kilusang Mamamalakaya ng Pilipinas (Pamalakaya) said the visit made it appear as if the United States had authority over domestic affairs, while the ICI continues to keep the public “in the dark.”
“It was unacceptable and insulting that the ICI, which refused to livestream its hearings for transparency, welcomed a foreign diplomat with open arms,” the group said.
Kabataan Party-list Rep. Renee Co also criticized the commission, posting on X: “US interference gusto, transparency and public hearings ayaw?”
Meanwhile, former Bayan Muna Representative Teddy Casiño questioned the US Embassy’s involvement, asking: “What the hell is the US doing interfering on this matter?”
Anakbayan vice chair Lance Alba echoed similar sentiments, saying the US envoy appeared to have gained access to the investigation while the Filipino public was “left in the dark.”
“Ano bang papel niya diyan?” he asked.
Hosaka, however, clarified that no form of assistance or intervention from the embassy was discussed during the meeting, particularly in relation to former Ako Bicol Partylist Representative Zaldy Co, who is currently in the United States for medical treatment and has yet to face the commission despite a subpoena over alleged involvement in flood control fund insertions in the previous national budget.
“Wala namang ganung napag-usapan. Ang gusto lang nilang malaman ay ano yung ginagawa, para bang getting to know,” Hosaka explained.