Contractor couple Curlee and Sarah Discaya have decided to no longer cooperate with ICI's investigation into the flood control corruption scandal. According to ICI executive director Brian Keith Hosaka, they exercised their right against self-incrimination and reneged on their earlier promise to provide full details.
According to Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla, it is difficult to make the Discayas a state witness because they did not tell the whole truth. “They are not ready to reveal everything. They just want to pick and choose what to say and save other people,” he said. Because of this, they may be charged instead of being granted immunity.
Curlee is currently in the custody of the Senate after being cited for contempt and has filed a habeas corpus petition for his release. He and his wife are also facing a ₱7.1 billion tax evasion case for non-payment of income, excise and documentary stamp taxes.
Even though Discayas withdrew, ICI is still continuing to build the case. Hosaka said that the information provided by other witnesses is sufficient to continue the investigation. Assistant Ombudsman Mico Clavano also said that Discayas made the wrong move because collaborating with the government is the only way to reduce their liability.
Meanwhile, 16 more individuals were included in the immigration lookout bulletin order (ILBO) in connection with the controversy. These include several former officials and businessmen who may have important information in the case. Despite this, the DOJ clarified that this is still not the same as a hold departure order from the court.
