Dizon to testify vs Zaldy in Co on Jan. 20 Sandiganbayan trial
By Trixee Rosel
At A Glance
- Zaldy Co's Sandiganbayan trial set on Jan. 20.
- Alleged irregularities in P289-million flood control project.
- DPWH Secretary Vince Dizon to testify in the case.
- Arrest warrants issued; Co declared a fugitive; Interpol red notice requested.
- NBI filed a new plunder complaint now under DOJ preliminary investigation.
Ako Bicol Party-list Rep. Zaldy Co (Facebook)
Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Vince Dizon will testify against former Ako Bicol party-list representative Zaldy Co before the Sandiganbayan in connection with the alleged anomalous P289-million flood control projects in Oriental Mindoro.
Dizon said the trial of Co will start on Jan. 20.
He said that he will also appear in other related cases in the coming weeks to help hold those allegedly involved accountable.
Arrest warrants have been issued against Co and several respondents, including DPWH officials and directors of Sunwest Corp., over supposed anomalies in flood control programs.
On Nov. 18, the Office of the Ombudsman filed corruption and malversation of public funds charges against Co before the Sandiganbayan, allegations he has denied.
Last December, the anti-graft court declared Co a fugitive from justice and ordered the cancellation of his Philippine passport.
The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) has also requested Interpol to issue a red notice to locate and provisionally arrest Co pending extradition.
Adding to his legal troubles, the NBI last week filed a new plunder complaint against Co with the Department of Justice (DOJ), which has already begun its preliminary investigation, DOJ spokesperson Polo Martinez said.