The Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) has formally opened its investigation into alleged anomalies surrounding government infrastructure projects, placing former Bulacan Assistant District Engineer Brice Ericson Hernandez in the spotlight.
On Friday afternoon, Hernandez appeared at the ICI office in Manila after being subpoenaed by the commission. According to ICI Chairperson Andy Reyes, Hernandez responded “freely” and voluntarily to all questions raised during the session.
The inquiry also revisited statements Hernandez made during separate hearings in the Senate on September 8 and in the House of Representatives on September 9. Both hearings previously focused on potential irregularities linked to multimillion projects handled under his tenure.
In a symbolic gesture during the proceedings, Hernandez surrendered one of his luxury vehicles—a GMC—directly to Reyes. Witnesses confirmed that Hernandez personally handed over the keys.
ICI Special Adviser and Baguio City Mayor Benjamin “Benjie” Magalong revealed that additional high-value assets are expected to be turned over in the coming days. These include a Ferrari reportedly worth ₱58 million, a Lamborghini valued between ₱30 million and ₱40 million, and several high-end motorcycles.
The development underscores the growing scrutiny over Hernandez’s wealth and its possible connection to the alleged misuse of funds in infrastructure projects. While Reyes and Magalong declined to preempt the commission’s findings, they emphasized the importance of transparency and accountability as the investigation continues.
The ICI probe is anticipated to expand in scope, with more government officials and contractors possibly facing questioning in the coming weeks. For now, the voluntary surrender of Hernandez’s luxury car signals an early turning point in the case.
