National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Director Atty. Lito Magno on Tuesday said that some of the eight flood control scam suspects still at large are overseas and have begun sending surrender feelers through Philippine embassies.

This comes as authorities intensified efforts to bring all remaining fugitives into custody.

Magno said three of the suspects abroad have already established contact with the embassies in the countries where they are staying.

“Like what Sec. Jonvic Remulla has said there are surrender feelers from those who are abroad. The three are coordinating with the Philippine Embassy of the country they are currently staying,” Magno said.

He added that the government is offering multiple options for the fugitives’ return — either they fly home voluntarily or request to be fetched by Philippine law enforcement teams.

“Magno said the fugitives can voluntarily go home if they wanted to and they can also send to the government law enforcers that they want to be fetched.”

He also noted that authorities are mindful of possible concerns regarding the fugitives' safety if this is affecting their willingness to return.

“Hindi natin inaalis ang mga pangambang ganyan. Ang gobyerno naman ay nakahanda sa kung ano man nanaisin nilang pamamaraan sa kanilang pag-uwi.”

Magno further confirmed that former Ako Bicol Rep. Zaldy Co — one of the central figures in the case — was last traced to Japan, based on information earlier shared by Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla.

“We are conducting monitoring of his movement,” Magno said, adding that the NBI has already requested an INTERPOL Red Notice for Co, which would alert law enforcement authorities in all member countries.

“Practically, this is like asking help to host country… as they can be arrested. He can also surrender or can be fetched,” Magno said.

The NBI OIC added that a request for the cancellation of Co’s passport has been filed. NBI and CIDG teams earlier visited a residence in Valle Verde, where individuals identifying themselves as Co’s lawyers allowed agents to inspect the property.

Magno assured that once Co is located, authorities will secure his safe return.

For the four suspects believed to still be in the Philippines, Magno said the Interior Secretary has given them until Thursday to surrender voluntarily.

“They were given up to Thursday to surrender. The NBI continues to coordinate closely with other law enforcement agencies as operations intensify to account for all individuals linked to the alleged anomalous flood control projects,” said Magno.