Five Individuals Granted Protected Witness Status by DOJ in Ongoing Investigation

In a press briefing held on Wednesday, September 24, Department of Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla announced that three former officials from the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) along with married contractors Cezarah "Sarah" Discaya and Pacifico "Curlee" Discaya have been granted protected witness status. These individuals have been formally included in the DOJ’s Witness Protection Program (WPP) starting this week.

The officials named include Henry Alcatara, former district engineer, and former assistant district engineers Brice Hernandez and Jaypee Mendoza. The decision to extend protection followed consultations, with Secretary Remulla emphasizing it as the most prudent step at this stage of the investigation.

Secretary Remulla explained the purpose of the WPP, stating, "Kaya ginawa ang Witness Protection Program para ang mga testigo sa mga kaso ay hindi masaktan at hindi pagtangkaan ng buhay," underscoring the program’s role in safeguarding witnesses from harm or assassination attempts.

He also clarified that although these five individuals have been accorded protected witness status, none have yet been elevated to "state witness" status, a designation that requires thorough evaluation before conferral. "Wala pa tayong state witness," Remulla stressed, highlighting the DOJ's cautious approach in determining who merits the higher level of legal recognition.

A formal communication regarding the inclusion of these individuals in the WPP has been forwarded to the Senate as part of ongoing procedural protocols. The DOJ continues to maintain discretion and rigorous standards in managing witness classifications to ensure the integrity of the judicial process.