4 tax raps filed vs. Discaya

The government has formally filed four tax evasion cases against businessman Pacifico “Curlee” Discaya before the Court of Tax Appeals, clearing earlier delays caused by a motion for reconsideration.

Prosecutor General Richard Anthony Fadullon said the motion has been dismissed, paving the way for the Department of Justice to proceed with charges involving alleged tax evasion and failure to file returns or provide accurate tax information.

The criminal information, dated December 2025, was filed on March 12.

Earlier, on Feb. 6, similar tax evasion charges were first lodged against Discaya’s wife, Cezarah Rowena “Sara,” after Curlee sought reconsideration.

Discaya, currently under Senate custody, is the sole proprietor of St. Gerard Construction. He and his wife have been linked to allegedly anomalous flood control projects.

Defense lawyers formally entered their appearance on March 18.

Authorities estimate the couple’s tax liabilities at around ₱7.18 billion, covering unpaid individual income taxes and documentary stamp taxes tied to their reported divestment from four construction firms.

If convicted, the charges carry penalties of up to 10 years in prison and fines reaching ₱100,000.