Philippine authorities push for international arrest help
The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) has formally requested the International Criminal Police Organization (Interpol) to issue a red notice against former Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) general manager Royina Garma. The move comes as Garma faces a high-profile murder case in the Philippines, with prosecutors aiming to ensure she remains within reach of the law while pending extradition or surrender arrangements if needed.
What a red notice entails
Interpol’s red notice is a request to law enforcement worldwide to locate and provisionally arrest a person pending extradition, surrender, or similar legal action. It is not an arrest warrant in itself, but a powerful tool to flag individuals who are wanted for serious crimes across jurisdictions. The NBI’s action signals a concerted effort to internationalize Garma’s case, especially after domestic court orders targeting her passport and travel ability.
Background: Garma, the RC court orders, and the charges
Garma and several co-accused face murder and frustrated murder charges in connection with the 2020 killing of PCSO board secretary and retired police general Wesley Barayuga, along with injuries sustained by his driver, Jun Gunao. A Mandaluyong City Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 279 issued an order on October 15 that granted the prosecution’s motion to cancel Garma’s passport and to issue Hold Departure Orders (HDOs) against her and other suspects. Such orders aim to prevent suspects from fleeing the country while legal proceedings unfold.
Who’s involved in the case
Garma’s co-accused include retired police officers and other officials linked to the PCSO case. Some of them have already surrendered to the NBI, including Police Lt. Col. Santie Fuentes Mendoza and dismissed policeman Nelson Enriquez Mariano. Others, such as retired police colonel and former National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM) commissioner Edilberto Leonardo and Jeremy Causapin, remain in the crosshairs of investigators as the case moves through the courts.
Recent movements and Garma’s international ties
Garma’s recent travels have drawn attention beyond the Philippines. She returned to the country on September 6 after being denied asylum in the United States but left for Malaysia on September 7 to meet with representatives of the International Criminal Court (ICC) as a potential witness related to former president Rodrigo R. Duterte. Duterte faces charges at The Hague in connection with alleged crimes against humanity. Garma’s involvement with international bodies has complicated the case’s geopolitics and created additional avenues for pursuit by Philippine authorities.
Legal expectations: impact of a red notice
DOJ Prosecutor General Richard Anthony A. Fadullon welcomed the possible issuance of a red notice, noting that Garma’s movements would be more effectively managed and that the measure could help secure return arrangements if she attempts to flee or evade local courts. The red notice could also facilitate cooperation with foreign law enforcement agencies, which is critical when suspects travel or reside abroad for extended periods.
What comes next
The Interpol decision rests on its own legal criteria and due process, including ensuring the charges are bailable or non-bailable offenses and that there is a valid arrest request from Philippine authorities. If Interpol issues the red notice, Garma would be more easily located by police worldwide, and law enforcement agencies could detain her pending extradition or other legal actions. Philippine authorities stress that such a tool is part of a broader strategy to bring suspects to justice while protecting the integrity of the national legal process.
Public interest and accountability
The Garma case has captured public attention because it intersects with high-level governance, public funds, and the accountability of officials linked to the PCSO. As investigations proceed, observers will be watching how domestic courts coordinate with international bodies to ensure due process, transparency, and timely resolution of charges. The red notice request underscores the Philippines’ intent to pursue fugitives, wherever they may be, while navigating complex international legal channels.
