Chief of DPWH Speaks on Possible Penalties for Discaya Construction Firms amid Flood Control Mess in PH
DISCAYA – Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Vince Dizon claimed that the construction firms of the controversial contractors may face up to P300-billion in penalties for alleged bidding violations.
Th Discayas are among the contractors investigated over the flood control issue in the Philippines. Both the Senate and the House of Representatives have opened investigations on the issue. However, following the creation of the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI), only the Senate continued its hearing.
According to the House Speaker Bojie Dy, the flood control probe is best left in the hands of the ICI. The independent body is was created upon the order of Pres. Bongbong Marcos. The three-member body has started its investigation but the hearings were made in private.
Previously, Malacañang stressed that Pres. Bongbong Marcos will not intervene in the decision of the ICI with regards to livestreaming of its investigation or not. The Palace also said the Chief Executive will not meddle in the probe.
Pacifico and Sarah Discaya are among the contractors investigated over the flood control issue. Previously, during a Senate hearing, Sarah Discaya admitted to having 9 construction firms that bid for the same projects of the DPWH (Department of Public Works and Highways).
Based on a report on Inquirer, DPWH Sec. Vince Dizon revealed that the Discaya construction firms have secured projects worth almost P78 billion since 2016. The construction companies owned by the controversial contractors secured 1,214 flood control projects.
According to DPWH Sec. Vince Dizon, the Discaya construction companies may face up to P300 billion in penalties. Based on the report, he stressed that the maximum penalty is Php 250 million per contract.
“Mas malaki pa ang penalty kesa sa [amount] of contract,” Dizon said.
Recently, the Bureau of Customs secured the custody of 13 more luxury cars linked to the Discayas.