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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Flood control respondents' rights assured as gov't starts hunt after issuance of arrest warrants

Flood control respondents' rights assured as gov't starts hunt after issuance of arrest warrants

Published Nov 22, 2025 03:29 pm
Former Ako Bicol Partylist Rep. Elizaldy Co (MB File Photo)
Former Ako Bicol Partylist Rep. Elizaldy Co (MB File Photo)
Those who were included in the arrest warrant issued by the Sandiganbayan in relation to the case of graft and malversation over the flood control anomalies will be accorded all rights guaranteed under the law, the Philippine National Police (PNP) assured as it started the mobilization of policemen for the operation.
Acting PNP chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez, Jr. said they are now coordinating with other concerned agencies to ensure the implementation of the arrest warrants against those ordered arrested by the Sandiganbayan for charges of graft and malversation in relation to the P289.5 million worth of flood control project in Oriental Mindoro.
“We assure the public that due process will be strictly observed, and the individuals involved will be accorded all rights guaranteed under the law,” said Nartatez.
The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has instructed the Philippine National Police to implement the arrest warrants “properly and in full accordance with the law”.
DILG Secretary Jonvic Remulla said due process will be observed and all individuals covered by the warrants will be treated fairly.
“The Department’s position is firm. Enforcement will not depend on personalities or politics. Anyone who is the subject of a lawful warrant will be apprehended. The law applies equally to all and the DILG will carry out what needs to be done,” said Remulla.
“Public funds must be protected. Integrity in government must be upheld. The DILG will enforce the law and ensure that accountability proceeds as it should, for the safety and welfare of our people,” he stressed.
On Friday, Nov. 21, President Marcos announced the issuance of the arrest warrants against former Ako Bicol party-list representative Zaldy Co, some government officials that include a regional director of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), and private contractors.
He tasked all the law enforcement agencies to start implementing the arrest warrants.
The charges filed against Co and 17 other people are the first batch of the criminal charges brought to court since the flood control anomalies grabbed headlines over massive corruption that some experts believed could reach P1 trillion.
Nartatez said the active participation of the PNP reflects the continuing effort of government institutions to ensure transparency and accountability in public service.
“The PNP remains committed to supporting these processes professionally, fairly, and without prejudice,” said Nartatez.
“We call on the public to continue placing trust in our institutions as we carry out our duties with integrity, respect for the rule of law, and commitment to justice,” he added.
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