Introduction

A dramatic protest unfolded in Pasig City on September 4, 2025, as demonstrators targeted the compound of St. Gerrard Construction, a company owned by the Discaya family. The protest was sparked by allegations of corruption and mismanagement in government-funded flood control projects, leading to widespread public outrage. Protesters hurled mud at the compound’s gates and scrawled the word “magnanakaw” (thief) in red paint, demanding accountability for the alleged misuse of public funds.

Background of the Allegations

The controversy centers around several flood control projects awarded to Discaya-owned companies, including St. Gerrard Construction. These projects, intended to mitigate flooding in various regions, have been criticized for their substandard execution and failure to deliver promised results. Notably, a project in Barangay Bulusan, Calumpit, Bulacan, was inspected by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in August 2025 and was flagged as a “failed project” worth over ₱96 million. Investigations revealed that Discaya firms secured approximately ₱31 billion in government contracts between 2022 and 2025, raising concerns about the allocation and utilization of public funds.

The Protest Action

The protest was organized by the People Surge National Alliance of Disaster Survivors, environmental groups, and student organizations, including Anakbayan and Kabataan Partylist. Demonstrators gathered outside the Discaya compound, chanting slogans and demanding justice for the alleged victims of the failed flood control projects. The protestors’ actions were a symbolic expression of their frustration and a call for accountability from both the contractors and government officials involved.

Legal and Political Repercussions

In response to the protest, the Discaya family, through their legal counsel, announced plans to file a criminal complaint against the organizers for vandalism and malicious mischief. Pasig City Police Chief Colonel Hendrix Mangaldan confirmed that the protesters’ actions constituted a clear case of malicious mischief but emphasized the importance of respecting the right to freedom of expression. The Philippine Contractors Accreditation Board (PCAB) has already revoked the licenses of nine construction firms owned by Sarah and Curlee Discaya, citing violations of ethical standards and failure to comply with contractual obligations.

Public Response and Government Action

The protest has ignited a broader public discourse on government accountability and the need for transparency in public infrastructure projects. President Marcos Jr. has called for a thorough investigation into the alleged anomalies, and both the Senate and the House of Representatives have initiated separate inquiries. Advocacy groups are urging the government to implement stricter regulations and oversight mechanisms to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Conclusion

The events in Pasig City serve as a stark reminder of the challenges in ensuring accountability and transparency in public infrastructure projects. While the protest highlighted the public’s frustration, it also underscored the need for systemic reforms to prevent the misuse of public funds and to uphold the integrity of government contracts. As investigations continue, the outcome will likely have significant implications for future governance and public trust in government institutions.

For a visual account of the protest, please refer to the following video: