The Philippine government may recover at least ₱10 billion in insurance claims from flood control projects linked to contractors Pacifico “Curlee” Discaya and Cezarah “Sarah” Discaya over the past three years.
Senator Sherwin Gatchalian, chairperson of the Senate Committee on Finance, announced the estimate on Tuesday during a Senate budget hearing. The discussion followed reports of ghost projects and substandard works connected to the contractors.
According to the Insurance Commission, about 30% of the total project value is typically insured. Current assessments are determining which projects qualify for insurance claims and the amount that can be recovered.
The Senate Committee on Finance is reviewing the extent of the alleged irregularities and their impact on public funds. Senator Gatchalian stressed the importance of transparency and accountability in all government-funded projects.
He said insurance policies can provide a safeguard for taxpayers by allowing the government to recover losses from failed or noncompliant projects.
Authorities are working with the Insurance Commission to identify projects eligible for claims and ensure compliance with regulatory procedures.