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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Dizon dares Zaldy Co to return, answer corruption allegations

Dizon dares Zaldy Co to return, answer corruption allegations

Published Nov 27, 2025 11:33 am

At A Glance

  • DPWH Secretary Vince Dizon dared former Ako-Bicol Party-list Rep. Zaldy Co to return to the Philippines and face allegations linking him and other lawmakers to ghost and substandard flood control projects.
  • Complaints filed with the Office of the Ombudsman by DPWH and the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) are supported by evidence that strengthens the investigation and highlights government accountability.
Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Vince B. Dizon (Photo from DPWH)
Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Vince B. Dizon (Photo from DPWH)
Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Vince Dizon dared former Ako-Bicol Party-list representative Zaldy Co to return to the Philippines and face allegations linking him to ghost and substandard flood control projects.
The statement came after the DPWH and the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) filed complaints with the Office of the Ombudsman accusing Co of plunder, graft, and bribery.
The complaints also named lawmakers Edwin Gardiola, James Ang Jr., Jernie Jett Nisay, Augustina Pancho, Joseph Lara, Noel Rivera, and Francisco Matugas, who were allegedly linked to questionable contractors.
Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla said the evidence submitted by DPWH and ICI would significantly strengthen and expedite the investigation against the accused.
He added that the complaints underscore the government’s commitment to transparency and holding public officials accountable.
“Lahat, kahit sino pwedeng mag-Facebook live. Ang test diyan, uuwi ba siya [Zaldy Co] o hindi? Kung uuwi siya, then sabi nga ni Pangulo, pwede tayong magkaharap-harap. Come home, face the music (Anyone can go live on Facebook. The real test is whether he [Zaldy Co] will return or not. If he returns, then as the President said, we can face each other. Come home, face the music),” Dizon said.

Related Tags

Zaldy Co Vince Dizon DPWH Ombudsman flood control projects PH lawmakers
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