Senate Probe Reveals Massive Flood Control Project Corruption Scheme
Wealthy construction company owners reveal explosive testimony in Senate hearing, implicating 17 congressmen in massive flood control project corruption scheme worth billions of pesos.
Construction company owners Pacifico and Sarah Discaya testify before Senate Blue Ribbon committee on flood control project corruption
In a dramatic Senate Blue Ribbon committee hearing Monday, wealthy construction company owners Pacifico and Sarah Discaya delivered explosive testimony implicating multiple Philippine congressmen and public works officials in a widespread flood control project corruption scheme.
Widespread Corruption Network Exposed
The couple testified under oath that at least 17 House Representatives demanded kickbacks of approximately 25% from flood control project contracts. This revelation follows earlier investigations into the P17B flood control fund scandal that has rocked the nation's infrastructure sector.
Safety Concerns Amid High-Stakes Investigation
While the Discayas expressed willingness to provide detailed evidence in future closed-door sessions, they voiced serious concerns about their safety. Their testimony adds to the growing body of evidence that exposes the extensive corruption network in flood control projects.
Government Response and Catholic Church Intervention
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has announced the formation of an independent commission to investigate the corruption allegations, describing the scale of the problem as "horrible." The Catholic Church has joined the fight, urging young Filipinos to utilize social media in exposing injustice.
"We fear for our safety because we don't have protection yet," stated Pacifico Discaya during the hearing.
Impact on National Security and Infrastructure
With the Philippines spending approximately 545 billion pesos ($9.6 billion) on flood mitigation projects over the past three years, these corruption allegations raise serious concerns about national infrastructure integrity. This comes as civil unrest grows over infrastructure mismanagement.
Looking Forward
As investigations continue, President Marcos has launched a public reporting website that has already received thousands of complaints. The administration's commitment to addressing these corruption allegations signals a potential turning point in Philippine governance and infrastructure development.
Manny Pacquiao
Independent Filipino journalist covering democracy, civil rights, and government accountability across Southeast Asia.