Sen. Alan Peter Cayetano on Wednesday emphasized the importance of transparency, clear parameters, and public accountability in the Independent Commission on Infrastructure (ICI)’s ongoing investigation into alleged irregularities in flood control projects, stating that the body’s credibility will depend on how it conducts its work.
In a press briefing, Cayetano said that while he understands the arguments against livestreaming ICI proceedings, the public must still have access to information about the commission’s deliberations.
‘ICI should also be fixed. If I’m going to side with ICI on not allowing livestreaming, then at the very least it should be like a court, where reporters are allowed,’ Cayetano said.
He suggested that the commission could follow the practice of U.S. courts, where reporters are allowed to observe and take notes even without live video coverage.
Cayetano cautioned that shielding the entire process from public view could undermine public trust in the ICI’s conclusions.
‘Usually, when people don’t know the premise and the process, it’s not that easy to support the conclusion,’ he said. The senator also raised questions about how the commission’s independence will be defined, noting that the term ‘independent’ must be clearly explained to prevent confusion about its accountability.
‘While it’s a good idea to have an independent commission, what are the parameters? At least for me, because when you are independent, you are independent from who and what exactly?’ Cayetano asked.
Cayetano added that the ICI will only succeed if its mandate is firmly grounded in law and its direction clearly communicated to the public.
Even if the commission decides against livestreaming, Cayetano emphasized that it must offer other forms of transparency.