Senate Focuses on Widespread Corruption in Flood Control Projects: Sarah Discaya Appears at Blue Ribbon Hearing
Manila, Philippines — The issue of corruption in government projects has intensified again after businesswoman Sarah Discaya ‘s controversial appearance before the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee regarding flood control projects that are believed to have been used as a means of plundering public funds.
Discaya, who once ran for mayor of Pasig City against former mayor Vico Sotto, is currently at the center of controversy due to his name being implicated in alleged ghost projects and bid-rigging schemes under the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).
Senate Appearance After Arrest Order
Days before the hearing, the Senate issued an arrest warrant against Discaya for failing to appear at the committee’s initial invitation. But despite the tension, Discaya attended the hearing yesterday to answer the accusations against him and his family.
Senator Robin Padilla expressed his anger and frustration over the continued theft of public funds. He said, “It is sad and infuriating that the taxes that the people have toiled for are going to projects that the people do not feel. While some are drowning in floods, others are drowning in money.”
Conflict of Interest and Monopoly Issues
One of the most serious issues leveled against Discaya is the alleged control of his family over at least nine (9) construction companies, including Alpha and Omega, St. Gerald , and St. Timothy Construction . According to the senators, this is a clear indication of conflict of interest , and seems to be a way to monopolize government contracts.
Discaya admitted that it is true that they have multiple companies, but he insisted that he is no longer active in most of them , and that he only heads Alpha and Omega Construction . According to him, they started in 2012 with small projects, and expanded their operations in 2016 after they secured larger contracts for flood control .
But for committee members, this explanation is not enough . Senator Rodante Marcoleta, head of the Blue Ribbon Committee, maintained that there were deep irregularities in the project procurement process, and that ghost projects were possibly involved .
Controversial Video: Real or Fake Evidence?
Also part of the hearing was a reference to the viral video in which Discaya allegedly boasted that he had “made his first billion ” through government contracts. Discaya vehemently denied this , saying the video was “fake” and “spliced ,” allegedly made by those who wanted to destroy his reputation.
“I never said that. It’s a manipulated video meant to discredit me and everything I’ve worked for,” ani Discaya.
But some senators were not convinced . They used the opportunity to question his wealth , especially since reports and social media revealed that he allegedly owns 28 luxury vehicles .
“How can you explain such luxury if it is not connected to government-funded projects?” asked a senator.
Discaya emphasized that this was simply a result of their business success and “wise investments,” but for the Blue Ribbon Committee, this is possible evidence of disproportionate wealth —wealth that is not commensurate with the income of an average contractor.
Robin Padilla’s Call: Those Who Should Be Accountable Be Accountable
In his social media post, Senator Robin Padilla openly expressed his anger and frustration over the rampant corruption in the country. He said that a simple hearing is not enough— someone must be held accountable .
“Those who benefited are openly enjoying the people’s money. This will not end if no one is held accountable,” said Padilla.
He said he and other senators are working diligently to expose the truth and ensure that the people’s trust is maintained .
‘Nepo Babies’ Issue and Full Tax Payment
Amid the investigations, a Facebook post from Kris Aquino’s impersonator Tita Chrisino has once again shed light on the issue of ‘Nepo Babies’ —children of prominent personalities with privilege and power. In the post, Kris Aquino is praised as one of the few who is consistent and transparent in paying taxes .
“Among all the so-called Nepo babies of Philippine politics and showbiz, Kris Aquino stands out for her transparency and consistency in paying her tax obligations,” ayon sa post.
It was also said that from 2008 to 2015 , Kris allegedly paid almost ₱350 million in income tax, based on data from the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) .
Many agreed with the message, which seemed like indirect criticism of public figures who hide their wealth while some honestly pay their dues .
Continuation of Investigation
As the Senate investigation continues, it is not yet clear whether Sarah Discaya will face more serious charges or possible imprisonment . But given the course of the hearing, it is clear that this is not the end of the story.
In the coming weeks, the investigation into flood control projects is expected to deepen , and it is possible that more names will be involved .
In a country where every tax cent counts, such issues cannot be ignored. And according to the Senate—they will not be overlooked.