The Philippine National Police (PNP) has deployed intelligence and tracker teams to locate St. Timothy Construction owner Sarah Discaya and others implicated in the alleged ₱96.5-million “ghost” flood control project in Davao Occidental.
PNP Acting Chief Jose Melencio Nartatez, Jr. said coordination is underway with concerned agencies in anticipation of impending arrest warrants. Police units are also mapping possible hideouts of the individuals involved.
“All of our preparations are intended to make them feel that the only option left to them is to surrender,” he said.
Barangay and neighborhood watch groups have been placed on alert to relay key information. Nartatez urged public cooperation, stressing the importance of community participation in corruption cases.
“We encourage citizens—particularly those with direct knowledge or relevant information—to cooperate with authorities. Transparency and community involvement are vital to ensuring accountability and protecting public resources,” he said.
The Office of the Ombudsman filed graft and malversation charges on Friday against Discaya, several public works officials, and others following President Bongbong Marcos’ public announcement of their looming arrest. Ombudsman Boying Remulla said Discaya remains in Pasig City and is under surveillance.
The action comes as part of a broader crackdown, with nine of 16 suspects in separate anomalous flood control projects in Oriental Mindoro already apprehended. Remulla earlier signaled that more arrest warrants are expected within two weeks.