Sarah Discaya’s first day in court begins Monday

Controversial and detained contractor Sara Discaya is set to face her first day in court on Monday at the Lapu-Lapu City Regional Trial Court, prompting heightened security at the city’s Female Dormitory Jail.

Discaya’s legal proceedings will center on a motion to quash the warrant of arrest filed on 19 December 2025, as well as an omnibus motion seeking to quash the informations and warrants of arrest involving her co-accused. Most of those named are officials of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and officers of Discaya’s construction firm.

She is expected to be brought to Regional Trial Court Branch 27 in Lapu-Lapu City to hear the court’s ruling on the motions, including her request to remain under the custody of the National Bureau of Investigation. Her arraignment for malversation of public funds and graft charges is scheduled on 13 January 2026.

“The Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP), since the arrival of Mrs. Discaya in the facility, has put in place appropriate security measures for her safekeeping,” Jail Chief Inspector Ivy Christine Manigos, warden of the Female Dormitory Jail, said.

Manigos added that security protocols have been prepared to ensure Discaya’s safe transport for court hearings.

“While no official communication has been received regarding their decision to appear in person, the BJMP is nonetheless undertaking necessary preparations should a face-to-face appearance be decided upon,” she said.

The BJMP Regional Office 7 has deployed a Special Tactics and Response Team for Discaya’s possible transport and is coordinating with the Philippine National Police for additional security.

Discaya and eight DPWH personnel are currently detained in Cebu in connection with an alleged “ghost” project in Davao Occidental, an allegation the contractor has denied.