MANILA, Philippines — Senate President Vicente Sotto III confirmed that former DPWH District Engineer Brice Hernandez has been summoned by the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) over alleged anomalies in flood control projects.
he announcement was made during a brief interpellation at the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee hearing on Thursday.
Details of the ICI Summons
Sotto disclosed that Hernandez received a subpoena duces tecum for his records and a subpoena ad testificandum to testify before the ICI. The Senate chief advised Hernandez to “collect his thoughts” and “tell the truth,” emphasizing that the ICI investigation is separate from Senate legislative inquiries.
“I already received the notice and I will write an authority for the Sergeant at Arms to bring you to the Independent Commission inquiry,” Sotto stated.
Creation of the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI)
The ICI was established under Executive Order No. 94, signed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on September 11. The commission was created to investigate alleged anomalies, irregularities, and misuse of funds in flood control and other infrastructure projects nationwide.
Mandate and Powers of the ICI
The ICI serves as a recommendatory body that can hear complaints, gather evidence, and investigate government officials, employees, and other individuals involved in graft, corruption, or mismanagement.
Its scope includes the planning, financing, and implementation of public works and infrastructure projects, ensuring transparency and accountability.
Government Commitment to Integrity
The executive branch, through the ICI, emphasized the administration’s commitment to maintaining honesty and integrity in public service. The commission aims to hold accountable any official or individual who undermines the national interest or betrays public trust through corrupt practices.
Next Steps for Hernandez and the Investigation
Brice Hernandez is expected to testify before the ICI, providing evidence and answering questions related to anomalous flood control projects. The proceedings are part of a broader effort to enhance accountability in the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and other government agencies handling infrastructure.
Conclusion
The revelation by Sotto underscores the government’s efforts to combat corruption in flood control projects. The ICI investigation highlights the importance of transparency, accountability, and integrity in public infrastructure management, aiming to restore public trust and safeguard government funds.
Reference:
Maria Theresa Mondragon, better known online as Antie Marites, is a 33-year-old Filipina content creator who’s turning “chismis” into credible news and meaningful conversation.
With a knack for storytelling and a passion for public service updates, Antie Marites creates relatable, informative, and bite-sized news content for the digital Pinoy. Whether it’s trending headlines, government announcements, or everyday life in the Philippines, she breaks it down in a way that’s clear, fun, and easy to understand—no filter, no fake news.
She’s the tita who sips her kape while scrolling DBM updates and turns it into your next viral TikTok.She’s also your go-to source for “real talk sa real-time news.”
Follow her journey and daily chika on:
📲 Facebook: OMGMarites
📱 TikTok: @omgmarites2025