Airport watch leads to ex-DPWH exec arrest

A former Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) official allegedly involved in anomalous flood control projects was nabbed at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3 after arrival from Dubai on Tuesday afternoon.

In a message to reporters late Wednesday afternoon, the Philippine National Police - Aviation Security Group (PNP-AVSEGROUP) said the official had been on their watchlist since the Sandiganbayan released warrants on 21 November.

The Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) earlier confirmed that the arrested individual was Engineer Montrexis Tamayo, former Officer in Charge of the Design Division of DPWH-MIMAROPA.

He faces charges of malversation of public funds through falsification of documents with no bail recommended.

The airport police said airport law enforcement units have been monitoring inbound flights of personalities linked to the flood control projects, anticipating possible attempts to enter the country. 

Investigators added that the arrest was coordinated among airport stations to ensure all points remain checked.