Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla on Monday, June 8, confirmed that nine of the 11 individuals charged in a Bulacan flood control–related case are now in government custody, including contractor couple Pacifico “Curlee” Discaya and Cezarah “Sarah” Discaya.
During a media interview, Remulla personally went to the Malolos Regional Trial Court (RTC) to oversee the arrest and inquest proceedings following the issuance and return of warrants in connection with a flood control–related corruption scandal.
“As of now, Ang nine are already in custody. Si Pacifico Discaya was picked up at 7.00 am. Pagkatapos ko ay dinala siya dito para sa inquest,” Remulla said.
The court has yet to issue a commitment order determining where he will be detained.
He said his presence was meant to ensure that no “special treatment” would be given to any of the accused.
“Nandito ako to dispel any doubts na may special treatment ang mga Discaya, mayroon kasing reports na dahil malalaki ang ka-deal nila na congressman and senador ay napoproteksyunan sila,” Remulla told reporters.
The 11 accused are linked to alleged anomalies in a ₱53.9-million flood control project in Calumpit, Bulacan.
The case involves violations of Section 3 of Republic Act 3019, or the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act, as well as charges of malversation of public funds and falsification of public documents.
Here is the list of accused currently in custody:
- Cezara Rowena Cruz Discaya
- Roma Angeline Discaya Rimando
- Roberto de Leon Santos
- Merg Jaron Caparaz Laus
- Pacifico “Curlee” F. Discaya
- Bryce Erickson Diaz Hernandez
- Jaypee De Leon Mendoza
- Juanito Coronel Mendoza
- Floralyn Simbulan
Remulla also confirmed that two accused remain at large:
- Ernesto Galang
- Lorenzo Alcoriza Pantalunan
Remulla added that manhunt operations are underway for two public works officials who remain at large, stating, “Sila po ay may manhunt ngayon para sa kanilang dalawa ngayon.”
The DILG chief said some of the accused are being held at the New Quezon City Jail and its female dormitory facility.
Remulla further described the Discaya couple as among the “major players” in the alleged fraud involving flood control projects in Bulacan.
“Ito po ay return of warrant. Hinihintay po natin ang custody at remanding kung saan sila ikukulong ng judge. Hinihintay pa natin 'yon," he said.
“Ang nasa namin ito ay nahuli na namin sila lahat. Itong si Curlee Discaya at yung mag-asawa ay major players dito sa fraud control scam, lalong-lalo na dito sa Bulacan,“ Remulla added.
When asked about Sarah Discaya, Remulla said she is currently in Cebu, and any decision on transfer will depend on the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Office of the Ombudsman.
