PNP serves arrest warrant vs. contractor Curlee Discaya in flood control case

The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Monday served an arrest warrant to controversial contractor Pacifico “Curlee” Discaya, a central figure in the ongoing flood control corruption controversy.

PNP Chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said a sufficient number of police personnel were deployed to the Senate to serve the warrant issued by a Regional Trial Court in Bulacan.

Discaya had been in Senate custody since late last year after being cited in contempt during hearings on flood control projects. His detention in the chamber required coordination between the PNP and the Senate prior to the execution of the warrant.

“The arrest warrant was implemented in accordance with the law and established procedures in close coordination with the Senate to ensure an orderly, lawful, and transparent turnover process,” Nartatez said in a statement.

“There will be no special treatment. All persons subject to lawful arrest will be accorded the same standards of professionalism and due process,” he added.

The Office of the Ombudsman had earlier filed a case against Discaya and several co-accused for violation of Article 217 of the Revised Penal Code, or malversation of public funds or property, through falsification of public documents in relation to Articles 171(4) and 48. The charges stem from an allegedly irregular flood control project in Bulacan.

On Friday, Branch 20 of the Bulacan Regional Trial Court issued an arrest order against Discaya, his wife Cezarah, and nine other individuals.

Some of those named in the warrant, including Discaya’s wife and three co-accused, are already in detention in separate facilities due to other pending cases.

Nartatez said authorities expect the warrant to be fully enforced against all remaining accused who are not yet in custody.