Overview: The Discaya cooperation withdrawal in the ICI probe
The Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) is pressing ahead with its investigation into anomalous flood control projects, even as a high-profile couple central to the case withdraws cooperation. Curlee and Sarah Discaya, known for their aggressive display of wealth and multiple construction ventures, have invoked their right against self-incrimination and will no longer appear before the commission. The executive director of the ICI, Brian Hosaka, indicated that this move does not derail the investigation, which already rests on a broad base of testimony and affidavits accumulated to date.
What changed: Why the Discayas stopped testifying
Hosaka explained that the decision followed a media interview with ICI Commissioner Rogelio Singson, in which Singson suggested that no one has qualified as a state witness yet. The Discayas reportedly believed cooperation would yield a favorable recommendation as state witnesses. The commission clarified that Singson’s remarks reflected his personal opinion, not the official stance of the ICI. Regardless, Hosaka stressed that the ongoing inquiry will continue using other sources of information to link testimonies and build a comprehensive case against those responsible for the anomalous flood projects.
The broader investigation: 421 ghost flood projects under scrutiny
Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Vince Dizon announced that the DPWH has compiled enough evidence to bolster an airtight case against both government employees and private contractors tied to ghost flood control projects. The DPWH has identified 421 validated ghost projects out of an initial cohort of 8,000 inspected across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. Dizon emphasized that more cases will emerge as the investigation continues, with 15 to 20 cases anticipated for filing with the Office of the Ombudsman in the near term.
Legal and procedural ramifications for those involved
Charges being contemplated include malversation through falsification of public documents and violations of RA 3019 (Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act) and RA 12009 (New Government Procurement Act). Public officials found guilty could face dismissal and possible loss of professional licenses, while contractors convicted of ghost or substandard projects face permanent blacklisting from public works programs. Dizon underscored the commitment to pursue both administrative and criminal avenues to ensure accountability.
ICIs lookouts and ongoing testimony
In a separate development, the ICI has asked the Department of Justice (DOJ) to issue immigration lookout bulletins for several figures linked to the probe. The ILBO requests target a mix of former lawmakers, DPWH officials, and project engineers, underscoring the broad reach of the inquiry. The ICI has already summoned a number of officials for testimony, and authorities have indicated that future hearings will remain closed to the public to protect sensitive information while continuing to connect disparate testimonies and document trails.
What lies ahead for the Discayas and others
While the Discayas step back from cooperating, the ICI asserts that the investigation will persevere. The panel plans to cross-reference a wide array of evidence, including testimonial accounts and documentary records, to identify those truly liable. The ultimate aim is not only to prosecute but also to deter future misconduct in flood control infrastructure projects.
