The Department of Justice (DoJ) clarified Monday that there is no specific number, priority list or deadline for the arrest of fugitives in ongoing cases, stressing that law enforcement must operate based on real-time intelligence and proper coordination.

DoJ Assistant Secretary and spokesperson Mico Clavano IV stated the government will not implement a “queuing system” or set quotas for arrests, warning such practices could undermine the integrity of operations.

“There’s no specific number, no set date, and no individual being targeted ahead of others,” Clavano said. “There are no queuing numbers here.”

He also explained that the strategy is to pursue simultaneous arrests based on consolidated intelligence efforts.

“We gather intelligence on them all at the same time, and we aim to arrest them together where possible,” said Clavano, highlighting the need for operational coordination.

Clavano also disclosed that the primary responsibility for locating and apprehending fugitives rests with the Philippine National Police (PNP), not the DoJ.

“It’s really within their jurisdiction,” Clavano said. “The role of the DoJ and our prosecutors comes in once the suspects are brought to court. That’s where we present evidence and handle prosecution.”

Clavano’s remarks come amid public pressure to apprehend high-profile fugitives, particularly in politically charged and human rights-related cases. However, he urged the public to trust the process and avoid speculation based on the pace of arrests.

“Whoever gets caught, gets caught. We move based on operational readiness — not on public timelines,” Clavano said.

The agency also reiterated its support for the PNP’s efforts and affirmed its readiness to prosecute cases once suspects are turned over to the legal system.