Contractor Curlee Discaya Alleges 'Robbery' in WPP Restitution Demand During Senate Hearing
In a dramatic turn at the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee's eighth hearing on the flood control anomaly, contractor Pacifico "Curlee" Discaya expressed feeling "robbed" over demands to return allegedly ill-gotten funds as part of his application for the Witness Protection Program (WPP). The hearing, held on January 20, 2026, saw intense exchanges between Discaya and Department of Justice (DOJ) Prosecutor General Richard Fadullon, highlighting tensions in the high-profile case.
Discaya's Testimony on Restitution as 'Modern-Day Theft'
During questioning by Senator Rodante Marcoleta, Discaya revealed that no restitution was initially mentioned when he and his wife Sarah began the WPP application process. However, he stated that this demand emerged in subsequent meetings, which he described as akin to "modern-day theft." This characterization was swiftly contested by Prosecutor General Fadullon, who labeled Discaya's claims as falsehoods, emphasizing that the DOJ did not pressure for immediate repayment.
DOJ's Defense and WPP Application Stalemate
Fadullon explained that the DOJ's approach involves assessing what witnesses like the Discayas can credibly testify and prove before granting protection. He noted that the couple's lack of cooperation has stalled their WPP application, preventing them from receiving necessary safeguards. In response, Senator Marcoleta questioned whether restitution was voluntary or obligatory, pointing out that such conditions are not stipulated under the WPP's provisions, which prohibit making restitution a mandatory requirement, even in memoranda.
Senate Concerns Over Potential Witness Recantation
Marcoleta raised alarms about rumors that some witnesses might recant their testimonies, underscoring the fragility of the case. He further probed the DOJ on the specifics of the restitution, asking about the amount, recipient, and accountability mechanisms. The senator questioned if the DOJ's actions constituted an "abuse of discretion," to which Fadullon countered that restitution is not abusive when both parties agree to terms outlined in a memorandum of agreement.
Broader Implications and Key Figures in the Flood Control Anomaly
The hearing also touched on other individuals implicated in the flood control scandal, including former DPWH Undersecretary Roberto Bernardo, Henry Alcantara, Gerard Opulencia, and contractor Sally Santos, who are considered state witnesses. This development adds complexity to the ongoing investigation, as the Senate seeks to unravel the alleged corruption while ensuring procedural fairness in witness protection protocols.
