Letter to the Editor

Dear Sir:

I respectfully request the publication of the following statement to help inform the public about the ongoing efforts of the national government to ensure accountability in the multibillion-peso flood control anomaly.

The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), under the leadership of Secretary Jonvic Remulla, has issued a firm call for the immediate surrender of individuals who are still evading arrest in connection with the anomaly. This directive comes in line with the clear guidance of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to enforce outstanding arrest warrants without delay and ensure that all those involved are held fully accountable.

During a media briefing at Camp Crame, Secretary Remulla underscored that law enforcement agencies will relentlessly pursue every indicted individual until they are brought before the courts. He stressed that no distance—whether within the Philippines or abroad—will shield the accused from the reach of the law. He urged those with pending warrants to surrender to the nearest authorities, emphasizing that doing so is the most responsible course of action for their families and for the country.

Eight of the charged individuals are now in government custody—namely Gerald Pacanan, Gene Ryan Althea, Ruben Santos, Dominic Serrano, Felisardo Casuno, Juliet Calvo, Lerma Cayco, and Dennis Abagon.

Meanwhile, the following individuals still have outstanding warrants of arrest: Zaldy Co, Timojen Sacar, Montrexis Tamayo, Aderma Angelie Alcazar, Cesar Buenaventura, Consuelo Aldon, Noel Cao, and Anthony Ngo.

Secretary Remulla further confirmed that, except for Zaldy Co, several of the accused currently believed to be overseas have voluntarily contacted Philippine authorities and are expected to proceed to the nearest Philippine Embassy for immediate repatriation. They were advised of their rights and instructed to appear at the Embassy as soon as possible.

The Secretary also cautioned that individuals who attempt to shelter or assist any of the accused will face legal consequences, reminding the public that obstructing the implementation of lawful orders is punishable under existing laws.

Joining Secretary Remulla in reinforcing the administration’s commitment to accountability were 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 reiterates that the misuse of public funds will never be tolerated and that justice will be pursued fully and decisively.

Thank you for your attention and for helping bring this important information to the public.

Very truly yours,

Rogelio M. Sto. Domingo, M.A.

San Andres, Catanduanes