Senate Guarantees Safety for Whistleblowers
The Senate blue ribbon committee has assured the safety of contractors Curlee and Sarah Discaya after they came forward with allegations of corruption involving flood control projects. The couple named several House members and officials from the Department of Public Works and Highways in their claims, raising concerns for their security.
During Monday’s Senate hearing, committee chair Sen. Rodante Marcoleta emphasized the importance of protecting witnesses like the Discaya couple. He explained the procedures under Republic Act 6981, stating that the Senate panel must first submit a recommendation to the Senate president before any witness can be placed under state protection.
Legal Protection Process Explained
“So if you want this committee to request protection… through our authority, we will recommend it to the Senate president, and once it is signed, you will receive protection as provided under this law,” Marcoleta said in Filipino. Curlee Discaya responded affirmatively when asked if he consented to the protection process.
Officials reported that Marcoleta has coordinated with Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla on the matter. The Justice Secretary assured the Senate that the Department of Justice (DOJ) is prepared to fulfill its mandate to safeguard the couple, provided they are not deemed “the most guilty.”
“He said, you can tell them that they have provisional immunity, and they won’t be easily prosecuted,” Marcoleta shared, quoting Remulla. “This is in preparation for their application to our state witness program; that was the assurance given to me.”
Safety Precautions Urged by Senators
Sen. Ronald dela Rosa advised the Discaya couple to utilize bulletproof vehicles to enhance their protection. “I would just like to advise the Discaya couple that if any of your vehicles are bulletproof, use them, because I am very concerned for your security,” he said in Filipino.
He further explained that even if the lawmakers named by the couple have no intent to harm them, other parties might attempt attacks and blame the main suspects to sow confusion. “We might become Indonesia if that happens. So I advise you to take all the necessary precautionary measures as far as your safety is concerned,” he added.
Commitment to Witness Security
Community members noted that the Senate’s commitment to protecting whistleblowers like the Discayas is crucial in encouraging transparency and accountability. The assurance of safety and legal protection aims to empower more individuals to come forward against corruption without fear of retaliation.
As investigations continue, authorities are expected to monitor the situation closely and provide additional security measures as needed to ensure the wellbeing of those involved.
For more news and updates on flood control corruption, visit Filipinokami.com.
