The Senate Blue Ribbon Committee’s investigation into the anomalous and graft-ridden flood control projects has unveiled some intriguing developments. During the recent hearing, Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa questioned contractor firm owner Sara Discaya about when her firms started dealing with the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) on flood control projects, to which she replied “since 2016.” Meanwhile, Senator Jinggoy Estrada asked Discaya when she started buying luxury vehicles, and she responded that it was “as early as 2018 or 2019” with more purchases in 2022. Notably, former DPWH Secretary Senator Mark Villar, who was in office from 2016 to 2022, remained silent during the hearing. A recent report revealed that a firm owned by the Discayas has partnered with a Davao City-based contractor company for flood prevention projects worth over P860 million in Davao City. These developments raise questions about the ongoing probe and its potential implications.
In a separate matter, the Davao City Police Office (DCPO) is confident in maintaining the city’s reputation as one of the safest in Southeast Asia, thanks in part to the efforts of Director Col. Annan Muarip, who encourages community engagement in peacekeeping activities. Muarip has followed in the footsteps of former police Chief Col. Michael John Dubria in building a strong police relationship with the community, and has gained the trust and support of Acting Mayor Baste Duterte.
Additionally, Senator Panfilo Lacson has raised concerns about the absorptive capacity of Davao City’s first district for flood control projects, which were allocated P51 billion in funds. Lacson questioned how a single district could require such a large amount of funding for flood control infrastructures, suggesting that the need may not be as great as perceived. The senator’s inquiry may lead to a deeper investigation into the matter, potentially uncovering more anomalies in the flood control projects.
