The Pasay Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 298 has ordered that contractor Pacifico “Curlee” Discaya II remain under Senate custody while his petition for a writ of habeas corpus is being heard. The hearing on the petition is scheduled to continue on Monday, October 13, 2025.
Discaya, who has been detained since mid-September, was cited in contempt by the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee for allegedly lying about the absence of his wife, Sarah Discaya, during a public hearing on September 18, 2025. The inquiry focused on alleged anomalies in government flood control projects across the country.
The Senate stood firm on Thursday, asserting that its decision to detain Discaya was made within its constitutional authority. Lawmakers maintained that contempt citations are a vital mechanism to ensure truthfulness and accountability during legislative investigations. “The Senate’s power to enforce its own rules and compel truthful testimony is an inherent part of its oversight function,” a Senate source said.
Meanwhile, Discaya’s legal counsel, Atty. Cornelio Samaniego III filed a petition for a writ of habeas corpus before the Pasay RTC nearly a month after his client’s detention. The petition argues that the contractor’s continued confinement constitutes unlawful restraint, emphasizing that the Senate’s contempt powers must be exercised within reasonable limits.
In response, the office of Senate President Vicente “Tito” Sotto III confirmed receipt of the habeas corpus petition, noting that the upper chamber will comply with judicial proceedings while defending its constitutional prerogatives. “We respect the process of the court, but the Senate remains steadfast that its actions are guided by law,” the Senate President’s office stated.
Observers note that the case highlights the delicate balance between legislative authority and individual rights. Legal experts say the court’s decision could have broader implications for future contempt cases, particularly involving non-government witnesses in congressional inquiries.
As of Thursday, Discaya continues to be held within the Senate premises under the supervision of the Sergeant-at-Arms. His petition will determine whether he will be released or remain detained until the Blue Ribbon Committee concludes its investigation into the alleged flood control fund irregularities.
The continuation of the hearing on October 13 is expected to draw close attention from both legal circles and the public, as it tests the limits of congressional contempt powers and the protection of constitutional liberties.