Board Member Surrenders as RTC Orders Arrest for 10-Count Estafa

CITY OF SAN FERNANDO — Third District Board Member Estelito “Shiwen” Lim is in police custody following his voluntary surrender to Vice Governor Dennis “Delta” Pineda on Monday morning, March 9. The surrender was triggered by an arrest warrant issued by RTC Branch 44 over ten counts of estafa, including charges involving large-scale fraud under P.D. 1689 which carries no recommendation for bail.

Lim, a prominent social media figure and freshman legislator, has publicly acknowledged financial obligations stemming from failed business ventures totaling between ₱15 million to ₱20 million. While the surrender was coordinated through the province’s highest offices, the charges involve “large-scale” allegations of failure to pay investors and service providers.

The board member surrendered to Vice Governor Pineda following the issuance of an arrest warrant by the Regional Trial Court in connection with 10 counts of estafa.

Local officials said the surrender was coordinated with provincial authorities before the warrant was served. The move allowed the provincial government to facilitate the turnover of the official to the proper authorities.

The charges stem from a complaint filed before the court alleging fraudulent transactions. Details of the case are expected to be addressed during court proceedings.

Under Presidential Decree 1689, estafa involving large-scale fraud, syndicates, or funds solicited from the public may carry heavier penalties and, in certain cases, may be considered non-bailable.

The case also raises administrative questions within the Provincial Board, including whether the official can continue performing committee duties while the charges are pending before the Regional Trial Court.