Former DPWH Officials and Discaya Couple Granted Witness Protection, DOJ Clarifies No State Witness Status Yet

During a press briefing on Wednesday, DOJ Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla announced that three former Department of Public Works and Highways officials alongside the Discaya couple are now under the Witness Protection Program (WPP). The officials include former district engineer Henry Alcatara and former assistant district engineers Brice Hernandez and Jaypee Mendoza. The couple consists of contractors Cezarah "Sarah" Discaya and Pacifico "Curlee" Discaya.

Remulla explained, "After consultations, we agreed that the best course of action at this stage is to provide them protection." The DOJ has formally notified the Senate regarding the placement of these five individuals into the WPP.

Highlighting the purpose of the program, Remulla stated, "The Witness Protection Program exists to safeguard witnesses involved in cases, ensuring they are not harmed or threatened." Nevertheless, he was clear to emphasize that none of the five have yet been granted state witness status.

"We do not have any state witnesses at this moment," Remulla declared. He elaborated that granting such status requires a careful and thorough evaluation to determine who qualifies. "We must be very prudent in designating state witness status," he added, affirming that the decision remains pending.