National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Director Jaime Santiago has ordered an investigation into the bureau’s ongoing building project in Manila after learning that the contractors involved are two companies owned by the Discaya family, as reported by RH Jecelle Ricafort.

In an ambush interview in Pasay City, Santiago clarified that the ₱2.4-billion project was awarded to the Discaya firms before he assumed leadership of the NBI.

"‘Yong aming building doon giniba na at tatayuan ng panibagong building. So, nakahingi kami ng initial budget na ₱2.4 billion. Ngayon through DPWH ang nagpa-bidding kung sinong contractor ang makukuha, so nakita ko dalawang contractor, construction company both Discaya,” the NBI Director confirmed.

He stressed that the probe should not be seen as confirmation of any irregularities but rather as a measure to ensure that the construction is not defective or substandard.

“I’m not saying na merong kalokohang nangyari but the, iimbestigahan namin [kung] ano ba ito. Baka hindi magawa ‘yong building namin, baka substandard ‘yong bakal. ‘Pag nandoon kami [tapos] lumindol bumagsak ‘yong building namin. Iimbestigahan namin,” Santiago said.

The NBI chief also said the bureau will coordinate with Public Works Secretary Vince Dizon to determine the next steps, including whether construction should be suspended while the investigation proceeds.

As of now, Santiago noted, only the foundation has been laid for the building, which began construction in 2022 or 2023.