9th suspect in flood control scandal arrested at NAIA

Another individual linked to the anomalous flood control project is now in police custody, the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) confirmed on Wednesday, after the suspect was presented before the Sandiganbayan.

The ninth individual to face the anti-graft court is Engineer Montrexis Tamayo, former Officer in Charge of the Planning and Design Division of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) in MIMAROPA.

Tamayo is facing charges of malversation through falsification and violation of anti-graft laws, with no bail recommendation.

According to the report, Tamayo was taken into custody at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) on Tuesday upon his arrival from the United Arab Emirates. Authorities positively identified him using his valid ID.

A joint operation by the CIDG NCR Field Unit and the Aviation Security Group (AVSEGROUP) made the arrest possible, marking 9 out of 16 individuals allegedly linked to the Oriental Mindoro flood control scandal now under police custody.

After appearing before the Sandiganbayan, Tamayo was transferred to the Quezon City Jail in Payatas.

Last Monday, eight of the accused in graft and malversation related to the P289-million substandard flood control project also appeared before the Sandiganbayan for booking and issuance of their commitment orders.

The eight individuals include Dennis Abagon, Gerald Pacanan, Ruben Santos, Dominic Serrano, Juliet Calvo, Felisardo Casino, and Lerma Cayco, all of whom are DPWH officials.

As part of the process, the accused provided fingerprints during booking. The commitment order determined where they will be detained while the case is ongoing.

Male respondents were committed to the Quezon City Jail in Payatas, while female respondents were transferred to Camp Karingal. One respondent, Juliet Calvo, posted P90,000 bail for her graft charge.

The arraignment and pre-trial of the accused is set for 2 December 2025 at 1:30 p.m.