Government law enforcement agencies have launched a massive manhunt against all the remaining accused in the first case relating to the anomalous flood control project, Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Juanito Victor “Jonvic Remulla’’ said on Monday, Nov. 24.

This, as Remulla confirmed that eight of the accused are now in the custody of authorities: former Department of Public Works and Highways regional director Gerald Pacanan, Gene Ryan Althea, Ruben Santos, Dominic Serrano, Felisardo Casuno, Juliet Calvo, Lerma Cayco, and Dennis Abagon 

During a press briefing, Remulla emphasized that law enforcement agencies will pursue every indicted individual until they are brought before the courts, “No distance will shield the accused from the reach of the law."

"Anyone who remains at large will be found and that hiding, whether abroad or within the Philippines, will not stop the implementation of lawful orders," he said. 

Remulla then called on the accused with outstanding warrants to surrender to the nearest authorities, adding that “surrendering is the most responsible course of action for their families and for the country.’’

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

Remulla also warned that anyone who attempts to shelter or assist the accused will have to deal with legal consequences. 

The DILG chief reminded the public that obstructing the implementation of lawful orders is punishable under existing laws.

Remulla asserted that the DILG reiterates that the misuse of public funds will never be tolerated and that justice will be pursued fully and decisively.