ICI issues new subpoena to Zaldy Co; sets hearing on Nov. 11, 12

Metro Manila, Philippines - The Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) has summoned former Ako Bicol Party-list Rep. Zaldy Co anew, ordering him to appear next month in its inquiry into anomalous flood control deals.

On Tuesday, Oct. 28, ICI executive director Brian Hosaka said another subpoena for the former House appropriations chairman was sent to his last known residences in Pasig City and Bicol on Oct. 20.

The ICI official said the hearing is set on Nov. 11 and 12. This coincides with the target inquiry with former Public Works Undersecretary Roberto Bernardo who skipped the probe thrice, mainly due to supposed medical reasons.

“The initial subpoena was not served, so we had to send a second one,” Hosaka told reporters in a text message.

The ICI declined to give the media a copy of the new subpoena.

But on the first summons it filed, the commission asked Co to explain his personal knowledge as the former head of the House appropriations panel and his involvement in the projects of the Department of Public Works and Highways.

In September, the ICI asked the Ombudsman to file criminal and administrative charges against Co and other officials of Sunwest Inc., as well as a number of public works personnel, over a multimillion-peso questionable road dike in Naujan, Oriental Mindoro.

Co distanced himself from the public eye since the flood-control investigation began, and has gone on a supposed medical leave. He resigned as a lawmaker in September – on the day the House Speaker ordered him to return to the country.

Hosaka said the commission will review the possibility of tapping the court to issue a contempt order against Co, should he fail again to show up at the next ICI probe.

The commission has no contempt power, based on the executive order that established the investigating body.

Hosaka said any additional powers on the commission might be possible through legislation.