Quezon City Rep. Arjo Atayde denied having any professional or personal ties with contractors Curlee and Sarah Discaya after a viral photo of them together circulated online.
The lawmaker released a statement on Instagram insisting that he has “never engaged” with the Discasya siblings in any capacity. He clarified that the photo was from an old, unplanned encounter where they only exchanged a brief greeting.
The controversy arose after Curlee Discaya testified in a Senate hearing, naming several politicians allegedly involved in questionable flood control projects. Atayde’s name was among those mentioned, fueling speculation about his possible connection to the contractors.
In response, Atayde rejected any insinuations of involvement, stressing that he has never used his position for personal gain. He pointed to the photo’s circulation as misleading and urged the public not to interpret it as evidence of improper dealings.
“I have never dealt with the Discasya contractors in any form,” Atayde said. “That picture was simply a quick ‘hi, hello’ from years back.”
Atayde’s remarks came as the Senate inquiry intensified, with contractors and lawmakers facing scrutiny over alleged irregularities in flood control projects across the country. While the investigation continues, Atayde reiterated his commitment to transparency and denied any wrongdoing.
The viral image has added to the political tension surrounding the probe, raising questions about the credibility of claims and counterclaims made during the hearings.
As of now, the House lawmaker maintains that his only interaction with the Discasya siblings was incidental and that he has no connection to the projects under investigation.
