Pasig Mayor Appeals for Peace During Protest
Pasig City Mayor Vico Sotto appealed to protesters at the Discaya companies’ St. Gerrard Construction headquarters to avoid violence. He acknowledged the public’s anger and frustration but stressed the importance of peaceful actions.
“I understand that we are angry and frustrated, but let’s not resort to violence or acts that could potentially lead to violence or injuries,” the mayor said in a Facebook statement. The four-word keyphrase “Discaya companies protest” was central to his message as he urged restraint.
Protesters Target St. Gerrard Construction Building
On Thursday morning, demonstrators gathered outside the St. Gerrard Construction General Contractor and Development Corporation’s office in Pasig City. They threw mud and spray painted “magnanakaw” (thief) on the company’s gates, expressing their outrage over alleged corruption linked to the flood-control projects.
Local leaders reported concerns that the protest could escalate. Mayor Sotto warned, “It is not the corrupt who will get hurt if the gate gives out, and they also won’t be the ones hit with stones. I’m worried about the security guards, the workers, and the rallyists themselves.” His words highlighted the risks faced by all parties involved.
City Government Commits to Accountability
Mayor Sotto reassured the public that the Pasig City government remains committed to pursuing justice. Officials noted ongoing efforts to investigate and prosecute those responsible for the alleged anomalies in flood-control projects.
“Rest assured, we in the LGU will continue to do our part with investigation, case build-up, and even prosecution. Not just for the Discaya companies. Anything we can do to help. We have had initial exchanges of info and coordination with at least 5 national government agencies,” Sotto affirmed.
Discaya Companies Under Scrutiny for Flood-Control Contracts
St. Gerrard Construction is one of nine companies owned by Cezarah “Sarah” Discaya, which secured over P30 billion worth of government flood-control contracts from 2022 to 2025. Community members noted the serious implications of these awards amid ongoing investigations.
The Philippine Contractors Accreditation Board revoked the licenses of all nine Discaya-owned companies after Sarah Discaya admitted to “multiple bidding participation” during a Senate blue ribbon committee hearing. This revelation intensified public scrutiny and calls for accountability.
History of Sanctions Against St. Gerrard Construction
St. Gerrard Construction was suspended in 2015 and blacklisted in 2020 by the Department of Public Works and Highways. Despite these sanctions, the Philippine Contractors Accreditation Board issued a license to St. Gerrard valid until January 2026, raising questions among officials about regulatory oversight.
Legal Actions and Immigration Watch
The Department of Justice has issued an immigration lookout bulletin order against individuals allegedly involved in the irregular flood-control projects. The list includes Sarah Discaya and her husband, Pacifico Discaya, according to sources close to the investigation.
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