Photo of Ping Lacson With the Discaya Couple Trends Online
KIKO BARZAGA – The Cavite representative has called for an investigation into a photo that allegedly shows Senator Ping Lacson meeting privately with the controversial Discaya family, who are currently facing corruption allegations. The photo has raised questions about Lacson’s possible ties to Sarah and Curlee Discaya, owners of several construction companies accused of irregularities in government flood control projects.
In response, Senator Lacson clarified the circumstances surrounding the meeting. According to him, the photo was taken in late April, just before the 2025 midterm elections. He explained that a campaign supporter, Fred Villaroman—the son of the late Maj. Gen. Francisco Villaroman—brought the Discayas’ child to his office in Taguig City to invite him to a rally in Davao. However, Lacson said he politely declined the invitation. The senator emphasized that the meeting was brief, lasting only 15 to 20 minutes, and that the group photo was taken before they parted ways.
Addressing suspicions, Lacson firmly denied receiving any form of financial support from the Discayas. “I did not receive, nor did the Discayas offer any campaign contribution in whatever form,” he stated. He also stressed that he had no prior knowledge of who they were or the nature of their businesses, since most of the conversation was handled by Villaroman.
This clarification is especially significant because Lacson currently serves as chairman of the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee, which is leading the investigation into the Discaya couple. The Discayas are accused of securing government projects through rigged bidding, overpricing, and kickback deals with lawmakers and DPWH officials. Their alleged involvement in these schemes led the Philippine Contractors Accreditation Board to revoke the licenses of nine firms owned by Sarah Discaya. Curlee Discaya later admitted that some of the bidding processes were indeed anomalous. The couple has since sought witness protection amid the controversy.
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