Vico Sotto Slams Discaya Couple in Senate Hearing: “Kailangan May Managot”

Date: September 9, 2025

Introduction

In a firm and unflinching statement delivered amid the ongoing Senate Blue Ribbon Committee investigation into the controversial flood control projects, Pasig City Mayor Vico Sotto broke his silence and demanded full accountability from private contractors and public officials allegedly involved in the multimillion-peso corruption scandal. The focus of his criticism: the Discaya couple, who were named in multiple testimonies as central figures in the anomalous transactions.

Vico Sotto: “Kailangan may managot”

Mayor Vico Sotto, known for his transparent governance and anti-corruption stance, minced no words in his address:

“We are seeing the same names again and again. The public deserves clarity, honesty, and most of all — action. Kailangan may managot.”

The mayor’s statement came after testimonies from businessmen and whistleblowers alleged that the Discaya-owned companies — supposedly multiple construction firms linked to government-funded flood control projects — were involved in highly irregular bidding and implementation processes.

Sotto emphasized that if the accusations are proven true, it would represent not just financial corruption, but a betrayal of public trust.

Questioning Ownership and Honesty

Mayor Sotto also called out what he described as “clear inconsistencies” in the Discayas’ statements. He noted that Sarah Discaya initially denied any ownership of certain companies involved in DPWH projects, only to later admit affiliations during the course of the hearing.

“How can we expect accountability when the very first answers are already misleading?” Sotto asked.
“It appears some companies may be used as dummies to avoid detection. The pattern is suspicious.”

He pointed out that these tactics delay justice and obstruct investigative progress — a red flag not only for Pasig City, but for every LGU (local government unit) that may have unknowingly partnered with questionable contractors.

Sotto Urges Speedy Legal Action

The Pasig mayor didn’t stop at moral calls. He pushed the Senate and relevant national agencies to act quickly before implicated individuals “disappear, clean their tracks, or manipulate evidence.”

“We must act before they get away. This isn’t just about the Discayas — this is about the whole network. The time for due diligence is now.”

He urged the Ombudsman and DOJ to begin case build-up based on the testimonies and financial records being submitted to the committee.

Willing to Testify

Although not initially called to the hearing, Mayor Sotto expressed his full willingness to testify if summoned by the Senate:

“I have nothing to hide. I am more than ready to cooperate with the investigation if my participation will help uncover the truth.”

This declaration was widely praised by observers and civil society groups who view Sotto as a model of integrity in local governance.

Peaceful Accountability

In closing, Sotto also addressed growing civil unrest related to the scandal. Protesters have recently gathered outside sites reportedly linked to the Discaya businesses. While he acknowledged public anger as valid, he called for peaceful and lawful expression.

“We want justice — not chaos. Let’s channel our outrage into legal, meaningful action. Hindi tayo dapat bumaba sa antas ng panloloko.”

Conclusion

Mayor Vico Sotto’s statement at the Senate hearing sends a strong message: corruption will not be tolerated, no matter how deep or far-reaching its roots may be. His call for urgent investigation, legal action, and public vigilance stands as a rallying cry in one of the most high-profile scandals of the year. With more hearings expected, public pressure is building — and so is the demand for justice.

Related Articles (For Further Reading):

Who Are the Discayas? Profile of the Business Couple at the Center of Flood Control Probe
Inside the DPWH Flood Control Controversy: A Breakdown of the Projects and Budget
How Local Governments Are Affected by National-Level Corruption
Senate Blue Ribbon Hearings: Powers, Limitations, and Impact on Policy
Why Public Trust Depends on Quick Action from Government Watchdogs