THE Iglesia ni Cristo (INC) has called on the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) to open its investigation on alleged irregularities in flood control projects to the public.
In an episode of “Sa Ganang Mamamayan” aired on Tuesday, October 7, INC Executive Minister Eduardo V. Manalo, through church spokesperson Bro. Edwil D. Zabala, said that keeping the proceedings confidential would not help restore public trust.
“Whatever the outcome may be, it could end up being unacceptable to the people and might only worsen the prevailing confusion and uncertainty,” the statement read.
The INC emphasized that transparency is vital in uncovering the truth, saying: “The hearings should be open and witnessed by the public. We believe that genuine peace can only be achieved if the investigation is conducted with full transparency and without bias or concealment.”
Earlier, ICI executive director Brian Keith Hosaka said the commission would keep the hearings private to prevent “trial by publicity” and political interference.
The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) has also expressed opposition to any attempt to delay or derail the investigation through “backroom deals,” “leadership takeovers,” or “selective justice.”
