The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) will auction four luxury vehicles owned by the Discaya couple, according to an announcement on June 21. The auction is scheduled for June 29 at the BIR National Office in Quezon City.
Vehicles and value
The vehicles include a 2017 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, a 2019 Range Rover LWT, a 2023 Land Rover Defender 130S, and a 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLS 350T AMG. All were purchased from St. Gerrard Construction General Contractor and Development Corporation. The total estimated value of the vehicles is P26.14 million.
Purpose of the auction
BIR Commissioner Charlito Martin-Mendoza explained that the auction aims to speed up tax collection and prevent further depreciation of the vehicles while under government custody. The proceeds will be applied to the tax liabilities of the owners.
Background of the case
The Discaya couple—contractors Pacifico and Cezarah “Sarah” Discaya—were arrested for their involvement in anomalies related to flood control projects under the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH). In March, the Bureau of Customs turned over P102 million to the Bureau of Treasury from auctions of nine out of 13 confiscated vehicles belonging to the couple.
