Discaya: No conflict of interest seen

Philanthropist Curlee Discaya sees no conflict of interest if his wife, Sarah Discaya, wins the Pasig City mayoral contest in the midterm elections.

Discaya, who owns St. Gerrard Construction General Contractor Development Corp., a quadruple AAAA construction firm based in Pasig City, was reacting to charges by their political opponents that there might be a conflict of interest if Sarah becomes mayor of the city.

“That cannot be included because, first and foremost, from the very beginning, there is already a conflict of interest,” Curlee told reporters and vloggers in an interview on the sidelines of a medical mission at Bliss 1 Jenny’s in Barangay Maybunga, Pasig City on Saturday morning.

“We also do not wish to engage in such actions because they could hinder the establishment of the government we desire. For example, if you are also the contractor for that building, how can you blacklist or sanction it if the construction progress is not going satisfactorily?” Curlee said.

Corporate identity

Curlee explained that their construction company has a separate identity, which means that Sarah will only impart her experience and skills in the field of infrastructure to Pasigueños.

“However, our company will continue to engage in contracts at the national level. She cannot participate here because these companies are related to her, and she could face legal action due to a conflict of interest. Therefore, she will not allow any of her companies to be involved,” Curlee added.

Sarah said that conflict of interest is punishable by law under Republic Act 9184, otherwise known as the Government Procurement Reform Act.