Overview: A Widening Bribe Probe and a Key Withdrawal
The Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) faces a widening bribery investigation into anomalous flood control projects, even as one high-profile development shakes the core of its witness lineup. The contractor couple known as Curlee and Sarah Discaya, central figures in the controversy, have informed the ICI they will no longer cooperate in the probe. This development follows prior testimonies and affidavits the couple provided to the commission.
What the Discayas Claimed and Why They Withdrew
Executive director Brian Hosaka disclosed that the Discayas invoked their right against self-incrimination, signaling they will not appear before the ICI or offer further cooperation. In comments after a Wednesday hearing, Hosaka explained that the decision came after the couple watched a media interview with ICI Commissioner Rogelio Singson, in which he stated that no one had qualified as a state witness yet. The Discayas reportedly believed cooperation would yield a favorable recommendation as state witnesses, a view Hosaka said reflected the individuals’ interpretation rather than the commission’s position.
Impact on the Investigation
Hosaka emphasized that the withdrawal would not derail the inquiry. He noted that the Discayas’ earlier testimony and affidavits contributed to the case-building against those involved in anomalous flood mitigation projects. He also indicated that additional testimony from other resource persons could help corroborate evidence and strengthen the case against culpable parties. “There are many sources of information. We will connect them to each other to find what really happened and file cases against those involved,” he said.
Context: Ghost Projects and a Broader Fight Against Corruption
The ongoing investigation centers on 421 validated ghost flood control projects, a subset of a larger group of projects initially reviewed by the DPWH, armed forces, and other agencies. DPWH officials have signaled confidence in the gathered evidence, promising to file administrative and criminal charges where warranted. Public Works Secretary Vince Dizon stated that 15 to 20 cases could be submitted to the Office of the Ombudsman in the coming weeks, targeting both public employees and private contractors linked to the ghost projects.
Evidence and Proceedings
DPWH has asserted that its compiled evidence is robust enough to proceed with prosecutions, including alleged malversation through falsification of public documents and violations of anti-graft laws. The department also warned of lifetime blacklisting for contractors found guilty of ghost or substandard projects, a move intended to deter future misconduct and safeguard public resources.
The Bigger Picture: Watchlists and Ongoing Lookouts
In parallel with the ICI’s probe, the ICI has asked the Department of Justice to issue immigration lookout bulletins for 19 individuals tied to anomalous flood control projects. The list includes lawmakers, former officials, and DPWH personnel, underscoring the breadth of the investigation. An ILBO can prevent suspected flight abroad, helping authorities secure cooperation from key figures as cases advance.
What Comes Next for the ICI and Participants
Despite the Discayas’ withdrawal, the ICI remains focused on triangulating testimony from multiple sources and cross-referencing documentary evidence. The commission’s objective is to uncover the true extent of improper influence, misrepresentation, and procurement violations surrounding flood control initiatives. The continued appearance of other witnesses and the submission of new evidence will determine how many suspects will face charges and how the public’s trust in infrastructure projects will be restored.
Bottom Line
The Discayas’ decision to withdraw from cooperation marks a notable turn in the ICI probe but is not expected to halt momentum. With a broad coalition of testimonies and an expanding set of corroborative documents, investigators are pressing forward to hold accountable those responsible for ghost projects and to reinforce procurement integrity across infrastructure programs.
