Atayde denies flood control claims, pledges full cooperation in probe

Quezon City First District Rep. Juan Carlos “Arjo” Atayde on Tuesday strongly rejected allegations linking him to irregularities in flood control projects, calling the accusations “completely false” and part of a smear campaign.

He vowed to fully cooperate with the ongoing probe of the Independent Commission on Infrastructure (ICI), saying, “I will face the investigation again if necessary. I will not evade it, and I will not leave the country. I owe that to the public I serve, to my family, and to my conscience.”

Atayde, who voluntarily appeared before the ICI, stressed that all flood control projects in his district were planned and proposed by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) long before these reached Congress.

“I know in my heart, and the documents clearly show, that I had no involvement in any wrongdoing,” he said after responding to the ICI’s invitation at its office in Taguig City.

He reiterated that he had no role in crafting or altering the national budget, noting that only the Bicameral Conference Committee has that authority. He added that he had no control over DPWH procurement processes, contractor selection, project implementation, or the release of payments.

The lawmaker also distanced himself from controversial contractors Pacifico and Cezarah Discaya, emphasizing that “there is no connection whatsoever between us.”

Atayde pointed to DPWH certifications affirming that the projects in his district exist, have been implemented, and are fully documented.

“There are no ghost projects in our district. No public funds were stolen,” he said.

While acknowledging that it is easy to cast blame and fabricate narratives, Atayde said he believes “the truth has a way of rising above the noise.”

“I appeared before the Commission because I want the truth to be heard, and because I stand with every Filipino who is tired of corruption and demands real accountability. I stand firm because I know I have nothing to hide,” he added.