Bayan: Discayas’ pull-out proves that ICI lacks teeth in flood probe

Contractor-couple Curlee and Sarah Discaya. Photo by Noy Morosco

MANILA, Philippines  — The Discaya couple’s recent refusal to cooperate with the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) is concerning, Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (Bayan) Chair Teddy Casiño expressed on Thursday.

Casiño told the media that this development is proof that the ICI is “toothless” and has no power to get individuals to testify about the alleged flood-control anomalies.

“The Discayas exposed the toothlessness of the ICI. It turns out that it really has no power or authority to compel those involved in corruption to testify and tell the truth,” Casiño said in Filipino.

READ: Discaya couple will no longer cooperate in ICI probe – Hosaka

Casiño also highlighted that the ICI investigation is worse compared to the Senate and House hearings on the flood-control projects.

He cited that the two legislative courts had the ability to hold witnesses in contempt, and push them to tell the truth, and the hearings were all publicized.

Meanwhile, he pointed out that the ICI is not only “secretive in its processes,” but it also doesn’t have contempt powers.

“Where is this ICI headed? The process is already secret, very untransparent, and it turns out now that they can’t force anyone to testify in their investigation,” Casiño continued.

Meanwhile, Taumbayan Ayaw sa Magnanakaw at Abusado Network Alliance convenor Prof. David San Juan renewed the calls for an independent investigative body composed of private citizens and representatives from different sectors.

The same call was made by the anti-corruption network Artikulo Onse before the establishment of the ICI.

Progressive groups are also concerned about a “whitewashing” or a cover-up during the investigation, adding that this is the reason why protests against corruption must continue.

READ: ICI asks DOJ to issue lookout order vs 16 people in ghost projects

ICI Executive Director Brian Hosaka announced yesterday that the Discaya couple “invoked their right to self-incrimination and manifested that they will no longer cooperate with the investigation being conducted by the ICI.”

During the first hearing of the ICI, the couple’s legal counsel, Atty. Cornelio Samaniego III said that the couple will give the “tell-all” answers to the ICI’s questions. /mr