Discayas received DOJ ‘reality check’ before withdrawing ICI cooperation
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Following the withdrawal of Pacifico “Curlee” and Cezarah “Sarah” Discaya from cooperating with the Independent Commission for Infrastructure’s (ICI) investigation into alleged irregularities in flood control projects, Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla revealed that the couple had been given a “reality check” by the Department of Justice (DOJ).
“Sinabi sa kanila ng mga kasama ko sa DOJ na malabo na hindi sila makulong dito, sa dami ng krimen na involved,” Remulla said in a radio interview with DZBB.
(“My colleagues at the DOJ told them it was unlikely they would not be imprisoned, given the number of crimes involved.”)
Remulla said the only possible course of action left for the contractor couple is to enter a plea bargain — unless they decide to tell the complete truth without shielding other individuals involved.
“Kailangan truth teller ang kausap natin. Dapat truth teller ang hihingi ng proteksyon ng gobyerno at special consideration,” he added.
(“We need to be talking to a truth teller. It should be a truth teller who will ask for government protection and special consideration.”)
In September, the Discayas applied before the DOJ to become state witnesses in the ongoing flood control investigation. Their application was rejected, and according to Remulla, their only chance of approval is if they agree to a full 100 percent restitution of the funds allegedly misused in the flood control projects scam.
However, the Ombudsman noted that such full restitution “has never happened in the entire history of the Philippines.”
Despite the couple’s withdrawal, Remulla emphasized that the Discayas are not the only witnesses cooperating with the ICI’s probe. He also reminded public officials that they are obligated to disclose their Statement of Assets, Liabilities, and Net Worth (SALN) when requested, as required under the rule of disclosure.
According to Remulla, SALNs will allow the ICI and the Office of the Ombudsman to conduct lifestyle checks on government officials to identify potential discrepancies and signs of corruption.
