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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Zaldy Co doubts independent commission can be fair if Magalong is in it

Zaldy Co doubts independent commission can be fair if Magalong is in it

Published Sep 10, 2025 07:56 pm

At A Glance

  • Ako Bicol Party-list Rep. Zaldy Co has expressed apprehension over the rumored inclusion of Baguio City Mayor Benjamin "Benjie" Magalong in the independent commission tasked to probe corruption allegations in government flood control projects.
Ako Bicol Party-list Rep. Zaldy Co (left), Baguio City Mayor Benjamin "Benjie" Magalong (Facebook)
Ako Bicol Party-list Rep. Zaldy Co (left), Baguio City Mayor Benjamin "Benjie" Magalong (Facebook)


Ako Bicol Party-list Rep. Zaldy Co has expressed apprehension over the rumored inclusion of Baguio City Mayor Benjamin "Benjie" Magalong in the independent commission tasked to probe corruption allegations in government flood control projects.
"It is my understanding that an independent body, the members of whom could possibly include Mayor Magalong, will be constituted to investigate the flood control projects." Co said in a statement late Wednesday afternoon, Sept. 10.
"It does not give me confidence that this independent body will conduct a fair and unbiased investigation given that the investigation has not started but Mayor Magalong is already giving statements to the media on the subject and my alleged involvement based on rumors and hearsay," said the Bicolano.
Co was referring to Magalong's remarks wherein he tagged the third-term solon as "one of the masterminds" of the alleged flood control projects syndicate in the House of Representatives.
According to the local chief executive, there was "no doubt" on the existence of such syndicate in the lower chamber.
"I was surprised to hear Mayor Benjamin Magalong mention my name to the media in connection with the flood control projects without saying what exactly I did. Again, I strongly deny any wrong-doing with respect to his vague claim," Co said.
"I also reserve my right to respond to any statement about my involvement on this matter before the appropriate body if and when I am given the specifics of the claim," added the lawmaker, who has been receiving medical treatment in the United States (US) the past few weeks.
Co is being linked to billions worth of flood mitigation project insertions in his past capacity as Committee on Appropriations chairman during the 19th Congress. He has denied these allegations.
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