The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has issued a forceful, non-negotiable ultimatum to individuals still evading arrest in connection with the multi-billion peso flood control anomaly: Surrender immediately.
DILG Secretary Jonvic Remulla, speaking at a media briefing at Camp Crame on Monday, underscored President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s clear directive to swiftly execute all outstanding arrest warrants and ensure full accountability for the misuse of public funds.
“Law enforcement agencies will pursue every indicted individual until they are brought before the courts,” Secretary Remulla declared. “No distance will shield the accused from the reach of the law. Hiding, whether abroad or within the Philippines, will not stop the implementation of lawful orders. Anyone who remains at large will be found.”
Remulla urged the remaining accused to surrender to the nearest authorities, emphasizing that it is “the most responsible course of action for their families and for the country.”
He also issued a stark warning to the public, stating that anyone attempting to shelter or assist the accused will face legal consequences for obstructing the implementation of lawful orders.
The administration’s unified front on accountability was reinforced by the presence of key officials at the briefing, including PNP Acting Chief Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr., DPWH Secretary Vince Dizon, DOJ Acting Secretary Atty. Fredderick A. Vida, and NBI OIC Director Atty. Angelito Magno.
The DILG confirmed that eight of the charged individuals are currently in government custody: Gerald Pacanan, Gene Ryan Althea, Ruben Santos, Dominic Serrano, Felisardo Casuno, Juliet Calvo, Lerma Cayco, and Dennis Abagon.
However, warrants of arrest remain outstanding for the following individuals: Zaldy Co, Timojen Sacar, Montrexis Tamayo, Aderma Angelie Alcazar, Cesar Buenaventura, Consuelo Aldon, Noel Cao, and Anthony Ngo.
Encouragingly, Remulla confirmed that several of the accused believed to be abroad have initiated contact with Philippine authorities.
“Except for Zaldy Co, several have already contacted Philippine authorities and are expected to proceed to the nearest Embassy for immediate repatriation,” Remulla stated.
He added that they voluntarily disclosed their locations and were advised of their right to appear at the Embassy as soon as possible.
The DILG reiterated its unwavering stance that the misuse of public funds will never be tolerated and that the pursuit of justice in this high-profile case will be both full and decisive.
