Pasig City Mayor Vico Sotto has issued a strong rebuttal to the statements made by spouses Pacifico “Curlee” Discaya II and Rowena “Sarah” Discaya during the Senate’s ongoing investigation into alleged irregularities in flood control projects.
In his remarks, Sotto cast doubt on the couple’s credibility, saying their testimonies were inconsistent and designed to protect themselves from liability. “Obviously there are congressmen, DPWH officials, and contractors who are guilty. But the Spouses Discaya are clearly angling to become state witness so they won’t go to jail,” Sotto said, cautioning the public not to be swayed by their narrative.
He highlighted what he described as glaring contradictions in their statements. During the hearing, Curlee Discaya claimed that contractors like them only earn “2 to 3 percent” from each project, reaching up to five percent in the best cases. The couple even insisted that some projects had resulted in financial losses.
Sotto questioned this claim, reminding the public of the Discayas’ previous boasts of massive wealth. In an earlier interview, the couple had declared themselves billionaires, claiming their net worth had already reached “11 digits,” or at least ₱10 billion. “How can you become a billionaire from just 2 to 3 percent profit?” Sotto asked, noting that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. himself had earlier flagged the Discayas in connection with a ghost project.
“Sinong gagawa ng ganun kalaking krimen para sa 2 to 3 percent na kita? Wag tayong magpauto sa mga paawa effect nila,” the mayor added, rejecting their attempts to appear helpless.
Sotto emphasized that the real challenge lies in evaluating the testimonies of all individuals involved, as each party may present selective truths. “The challenge is now how to sift through the half-truths and attempts to mislead us, not only of the spouses, Discaya, but of everyone involved. May we be vigilant and discerning,” he said.
The issue also revives the political rivalry between Sotto and Sarah Discaya, who previously ran against him for Pasig mayor. Sotto defeated her handily, cementing his reputation as a reformist leader in the city.
As the Senate continues its hearings, Sotto’s sharp remarks reflect the heightened tensions surrounding the flood control controversy, with accountability and transparency at stake.