Contractors Cezarah Rowena “Sarah” Discaya and Pacifico “Curlee” Discaya (left), along with former DPWH officials Henry C. Alcantara, Brice Ericson P. Hernandez, and Jaypee Mendoza (right, top to bottom), are under DOJ protection as “protected witnesses” in the ₱545-billion flood-control scandal probe. (Photos courtesy of the Philippine Senate)
Five key personalities in the ₱545-billion flood-control scandal are now under DOJ protection as “protected witnesses,” while investigators pursue asset freezes and Malacañang orders the recovery of stolen funds.
MANILA — The Department of Justice confirmed that contractors Pacifico “Curlee” Discaya and Cezarah Rowena “Sarah” Discaya, along with former Department of Public Works and Highways officials Henry C. Alcantara, Brice Ericson P. Hernandez, and Jaypee Mendoza, have been granted protected witness status in the widening flood-control corruption probe.
Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla said the designation entitles the five to security and assistance while their testimonies and documents are vetted. He emphasized that being a protected witness is distinct from being discharged as a state witness, which confers immunity from prosecution and requires a stricter legal process.
Witnesses under DOJ guard
Alcantara, the former Bulacan district engineer, appeared at the DOJ on September 23 to affirm his sworn statement that implicated contractors and lawmakers in alleged kickback schemes. He asked for protection and, according to Remulla, indicated willingness to return funds as restitution. Hernandez and Mendoza, both former assistant engineers, were also placed under protection, while the Discaya couple—whose firms won multiple flood-control contracts—were included following weeks of Senate testimony.
DOJ said protection arrangements are being set up while authorities evaluate the witnesses’ statements. Discharge as state witnesses remains a separate judicial step that requires proof that the person is not the most guilty.
Asset freezes and restitution efforts
The Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI), chaired by retired Supreme Court Justice Andres Reyes Jr., has begun receiving surrendered assets. ICI adviser Benjamin Magalong confirmed that Hernandez has turned over a GMC Denali and is preparing to surrender a Lamborghini.
Separately, DPWH Secretary Vince Dizon asked the Anti-Money Laundering Council to freeze ₱474,483,120 worth of luxury vehicles linked to 26 personalities. He also sought the freezing of aircraft assets worth ₱4.3–₱4.7 billion tied to companies associated with Ako Bicol Rep. Elizaldy “Zaldy” Co, citing links to questionable project funds.
Legislative and palace responses
The House of Representatives’ joint “mega panel” has suspended its own inquiry, turning over records to the ICI to unify fact-finding.
Malacañang, for its part, said those seeking protection should return any ill-gotten wealth. Officials added that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has directed agencies to prioritize the recovery of stolen public funds in connection with the scandal.
Allegations and denials
Alcantara’s affidavit alleged that portions of contract funds were delivered to aides of sitting politicians. Those named have denied wrongdoing and said they welcome a full investigation. DOJ and the National Bureau of Investigation are preparing draft complaints based on the testimonies, which respondents may contest in the proper forum.
Protected witness vs. state witness
Under Philippine law, a protected witness receives government security and logistical support but remains criminally liable unless a court formally discharges them as a state witness. To qualify as a state witness, the testimony must be indispensable to the case, and the person must not be the most guilty among the accused.
Remulla underscored that the government is still in the early stages of assessing applications and evidence.
