Vince Dizon Calls Out Discaya’s Bold Claim on Stolen Project Funds
VINCE DIZON — The Secretary of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) strongly criticized businessman and contractor Curlee Discaya over the latter’s comments regarding the restitution process for allegedly misused flood control project funds.
Discaya had suggested during a Senate Blue Ribbon Committee hearing on January 19, 2026, that it was as if they themselves were the victims of theft, implying that they were unfairly asked to return money they supposedly recovered from irregularities in the projects.
In response, Secretary Dizon described Discaya’s statement as audacious and inappropriate. He explained that the public expects restitution to be an acknowledgment of wrongdoing, not a reversal of responsibility. Dizon emphasized that it is the people’s money that was allegedly taken, and the proper response from those accused should be to apologize and return the funds. He said that Discaya’s claim that they were somehow wronged despite clear evidence against them reflects a bold and shameless attitude.
During his testimony at the Sandiganbayan on January 20, 2026, as a witness against officials of the DPWH-MIMAROPA, Dizon stressed that all evidence clearly showed irregularities involving Discaya and his associates. Despite this, he noted, Discaya still had the audacity to argue that they were the ones who were robbed. Dizon referred to this as having a “thick face,” indicating a lack of shame or accountability in the face of overwhelming evidence.
“Tapos narinig ko pa, sinabi daw niya parang sila pa raw nanakawan. Medyo makapal din naman talaga ang mukha nitong si Curlee Discaya,” he said.
Secretary Dizon also advised Discaya and his wife to confront the legal cases filed against them directly rather than making statements that deflect responsibility. He noted that Discaya’s wife is already in custody and urged them to face the charges, cooperate with authorities, and return the allegedly misappropriated funds to the government for the benefit of the people.