President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. convened a high-level meeting on Monday with key officials from various implementing agencies to discuss the ongoing execution of arrest warrants against individuals indicted for graft and malversation in connection with flood control irregularities.
The meeting, held in Malacañang, underscored the administration’s commitment to rooting out corruption in infrastructure projects.
Among the officials present were:
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Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Jonvic Remulla
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Acting Department of Justice (DOJ) Secretary Frederick Vida
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Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) Executive Director Benjamin Acorda Jr.
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Acting Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief PLt. Gen. Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr.
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National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Officer-in-Charge Angelito Magno
In a video message earlier in the day, President Marcos confirmed that seven of the sixteen accused are now in the custody of authorities.
The President issued a firm appeal to the remaining accused, including former Ako Bicol Party List Rep. Zaldy Co, to surrender immediately. He also issued a stern warning to anyone who might attempt to harbor the fugitives, stating that they will also face criminal liability.
The current wave of arrests stems from the Chief Executive’s directive to investigate flood control anomalies, which he first ordered during his Fourth State of the Nation Address on July 28.
To institutionalize reforms and aggressively pursue integrity in public works, the President signed Executive Order No. 94 on September 11, 2025, creating the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI). The ICI is mandated to investigate flood control and other infrastructure projects and recommend the filing of appropriate charges against those responsible for irregularities.
The meeting reaffirms the collaborative efforts of the country’s leading law enforcement and justice agencies to ensure accountability and the proper use of public funds intended for crucial infrastructure.
