Manila Update: ICI Investigation Moves Forward Despite Withdrawal
In Manila, Philippines, the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) confirmed that controversial flood control contractors Curlee and Sarah Discaya have decided not to cooperate further with its ongoing investigation. The decision, announced during a press conference conducted by ICI Executive Director Brian Hosaka on Wednesday, October 15, marks a pivotal moment in a case that has drawn attention to contracts and governance in flood mitigation projects.
What the Couple Claimed and Why
Hosaka stated that the Discsas cited their constitutional right against self-incrimination as the reason for their withdrawal from the inquiry. He added that the couple indicated they would no longer participate in the ICI’s investigative process. This move comes after a period during which the commission sought cooperation from the pair regarding project documents and other pertinent materials tied to flood-control contracts.
Context and Potential Implications
The ICI has long pursued accountability in infrastructure projects, particularly those linked to flood-control initiatives that impact thousands of residents in flood-prone areas. While the Discsays have opted out of further cooperation, Hosaka noted that the ICI has already secured a significant body of documents from the couple, which could keep the inquiry on track despite the change in witness participation.
Relation to Rogelio Singson’s Public Remarks
Hosaka referenced a recent interview with journalist Karen Davila in which Rogelio “Babes” Singson, a former public works secretary and an ICI commissioner, denied that the Discaya couple had been identified as state witnesses. The interview, which was uploaded on October 13, has become a focal point in the discourse surrounding the investigation and witness status. The ICI’s leadership emphasized that witness designation remains a separate consideration from the collection of documentary evidence and other forms of investigation.
What This Means for the Investigation
Despite the withdrawal, the ICI has stressed that it will proceed with the case using the documents already in its possession. Investigations of this nature often rely on a combination of testimonies, documentary records, and expert analysis to build a clear timeline of events and to verify compliance with statutory and regulatory standards. The ICI’s policy framework is designed to maintain procedural fairness while ensuring that critical information is not hindered by a lack of cooperation from any single party.
Statements from the ICI
Hosaka emphasized that the commission remains committed to a transparent, evidence-based process. He reiterated that the absence of continued cooperation by the Discaya couple does not impede the ability of investigators to advance the inquiry, particularly given the material already obtained. He also acknowledged the potential legal and strategic considerations that come with invoking rights against self-incrimination in high-profile infrastructure cases.
Public Interest and Community Impact
Public interest in flood-control contracts centers on the efficiency, safety, and accountability of infrastructure projects that affect thousands of households. The ICI’s work aims to ensure that funds are used appropriately and that projects meet technical and environmental standards. As the investigation progresses, residents and stakeholders will be watching for updates on findings, timelines, and any recommendations that may emerge regarding governance, contract administration, and risk management.
Next Steps
Going forward, the ICI plans to continue reviewing the documents provided by the Discaya couple and to interview other involved parties as needed. The commission reaffirmed its commitment to a thorough review process, with the objective of delivering conclusions and potential recommendations in a timely and responsible manner.
For residents living near flood-prone zones, the outcome of this investigation underscores the ongoing importance of robust oversight in public infrastructure projects. As the ICI advances its work, the public will be kept informed of significant milestones and any policy improvements that emerge from the inquiry.
