Senate cites 3 in contempt over anomalous flood control projects probe

The Senate Blue Ribbon Committee cited former DPWH District Engineer Henry Alcantara, Assistant District Engineer Jaypee Mendoza, and contractor Pacifico Discaya in contempt for allegedly lying during the investigation into anomalous flood control projects in Bulacan.

Alcantara was cited after denying knowledge of ghost projects, while Discaya invoked his right against self-incrimination.

Discaya's wife, Sarah Discaya, was also supposed to be excused due to medical conditions, but submitted a letter stating she had an important meeting with employees.

Senator Erwin Tulfo previously moved for Alcantara's contempt citation, finding his claims of ignorance regarding ghost projects and budget inflation unbelievable.

Alcantara maintained that his office merely implements projects based on the General Appropriations Act and has no actual knowledge of ghost projects.

The committee's decision means Alcantara, Mendoza, and Discaya will be detained in the Senate.

This citation follows Brice Hernandez's previous implication of Alcantara and other DPWH officials in a ghost project.