Agap Partylist Representative Nicanor Briones appeared before the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) on Monday, December 15, requesting that his hearing be conducted in an executive session.

Briones had submitted a formal letter on December 12 seeking the private session. His lawyer explained that the request aims to protect the lawmaker’s reputation amid what they described as “baseless and unfounded accusations.”

“The good name and integrity of honorable Briones have been besmirched unduly by baseless and unfounded accusations against him,” Briones’ counsel said.

The lawyer added that Briones is “concerned that the livestreaming of the proceedings of the commission may cause further harm and injury to his reputation.”

Briones was implicated by Curlee Discaya in a flood control project anomaly, with allegations that he received kickbacks from his company after winning a government contract.

Aside from Briones, the commission is also set to hear from Budget Acting Secretary Rolando Toledo later Monday at 1:30 p.m.

As of writing, the commission is on recess and it is yet to be confirmed whether the commission has approved Briones’ request for an executive session.