The request of Pasig City Rep. Roman Romulo for an executive session on his testimony regarding alleged anomalous flood control projects was granted by the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) on the grounds that public disclosure could endanger his life.
This was Romulo’s response on Wednesday when asked if he would consent to livestreaming and recording of his testimony.
Romulo asked his lawyer to state the grounds for his formal request. She said the disclosures her client would provide could put individuals’ lives in danger, particularly the congressman’s, considering the nature of the proceedings, and that the request was also intended to protect his reputation.
The lawyer added that the move sought to prevent the misuse of livestreamed content, saying they would have no control over how the material might be used once made public. However, she said Romulo consented to having his affidavit distributed since it is a public document.
Romulo said he voluntarily appeared before the ICI to air his side and clear his name and reputation. He also noted that calls for an Immigration Lookout Bulletin Order (ILBO) against him were being misused on social media.
According to Department of Justice officials, an ILBO directs Bureau of Immigration personnel to inform law enforcement agencies of the whereabouts of individuals named in the order. It does not prevent any individual from leaving the country.
Romulo’s request for an executive session was granted by ICI chairperson Justice Andres Reyes Jr.
Previously, Romulo said he would sue contractors Curlee and Sara Discaya after they linked him to corruption.