Full Breakdown
Rolls-Royce Cullinan Sold for P29 Million Amid Corruption Scandal
2/12/2026, 11:59:31 AM
Auction Details and Sale Outcome
The Rolls-Royce Cullinan, a luxury SUV seized from Sarah and Curlee Discaya, was sold for P29,026,000 during a public auction held by the Bureau of Customs (BOC) in Manila. The sole bidder, Igorot Stone Kingdom Inc., represented by CEO Pio Velasco, purchased the vehicle with the intention of preserving it as a piece of Philippine history. This auction was part of a larger event featuring ten luxury vehicles, of which only the Rolls-Royce found a buyer. The remaining nine vehicles, including a Bentley Bentayga and a Lincoln Navigator, were not sold, leading to a declared failed bidding for those items.
Background of the Discayas
The Discayas gained notoriety for their involvement in alleged corruption related to flood control projects, which led to congressional inquiries and the confiscation of their luxury vehicles. Reports indicate that the couple owned over 30 cars, and their lavish lifestyle became a subject of public scrutiny after they were linked to contracts with the Department of Public Works and Highways. Sarah Discaya is currently detained on charges of malversation related to a P96-million “ghost” project in Davao Occidental.
Igorot Stone Kingdom's Intentions
Pio Velasco articulated that the purchase of the Rolls-Royce was motivated by a desire to save the vehicle from potential destruction and to highlight the issue of corruption in the Philippines. He emphasized that owning the car serves as a historical reminder and a form of investment. Velasco noted, “This car is historic because it opened the floodgates for the nation to take interest in this rampant corruption.”
Remaining Vehicles and Future Auctions
Following the auction, the BOC reported that it had raised a total of P47,722,010 from previous auctions of Discaya vehicles. However, seven vehicles from the Discaya collection remain unsold, including a 2024 Lincoln Navigator and a 2022 GMC Yukon Denali. Additionally, two Bugatti Chirons, previously owned by foreign nationals involved in a Senate investigation of Philippine offshore gaming operations, are still looking for buyers, with floor prices set at P149,947,621.44 and P160,434,633.60, respectively.
Criticism and Opposition
The auction and the circumstances surrounding the Discayas have drawn criticism regarding the handling of seized assets and the broader implications of corruption in public works. Critics argue that the sale of luxury items linked to corruption should be approached with caution and transparency to ensure accountability.
Verbatim Quotes
- “First and foremost is to preserve a piece of Philippine history. It is also a form of investment and number three, to show the world that we, Igorots are also aware of the Philippine history, we also care and it is one way of helping the government,” — Pio Velasco, CEO of Igorot Stone Kingdom Inc.
- “This car is historic because it opened the floodgates for the nation to take interest in this rampant corruption,” — Pio Velasco, CEO of Igorot Stone Kingdom Inc.
