The Department of Justice (DOJ) has approved a lookout order against Francis Escudero, Joel Villanueva, Jinggoy Estrada, Martin Romualdez and other current and former officials being investigated in the flood control scandal.
The list includes some notable names such as Ramon “Bong” Revilla Jr., Nancy Binay, Mario Lipana of COA, Trygve Olaivar of DepEd, Carlene Villa, Maynard Ngu, Roman Romulo, Jojo Ang, PM Vargas, Arjo Atayde, Nikki Briones, Marcy Teodoro, Rida Robes, Eleandro Madrona, Benjie Agarao, Bem Noel, Ode Tarriela, Reynan Arogancia, Marvin Rillo, Teodoro Haresco Jr., Antonieta Eudela, Dean Asistio, Marivic Co-Pilar, Loida Busa, Bogs Magalong, Ramon Devanadera, Johnny Protesta Jr., and Arturo Gonzales Jr.
According to the DOJ, the Immigration Lookout Bulletin Order (ILBO) does not immediately prohibit leaving the country, but rather monitors the movements of those listed. If there is a pending case or hold departure order, they can only be stopped there.
Jinggoy Estrada, on the other hand, stated that he will not be spared. He said, “If when I was facing a plunder case I went to court and did not flee, how can I do it now without even a shred of evidence?” He added that he still has a Hold Departure Order from the Sandiganbayan, so he still needs permission before traveling.
Meanwhile, the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) invited Martin Romualdez and Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman to the hearing on October 14. A subpoena was also sent to former congressman Zaldy Co to submit a document related to budget insertions. According to ICI, its goal is transparency, accountability, and good governance.
