Ombudsman to Co: File response to flood control mess allegations

Metro Manila, Philippines - The Office of the Ombudsman has directed resigned Ako Bicol Rep. Zaldy Co to respond to allegations of his involvement in the flood control scandal.

Assistant Ombudsman Mico Clavano said their personnel delivered an order to file a counter-affidavit in the addresses of Co last week, but the people in these places “refused to accept” the order.

Clavano explained that, usually, it would be “deemed received already.”

Without a counter-affidavit, he said Co would lose his right to defend himself.

“‘Pag in default po kasi ang isang respondent, hindi siya nakapagbigay ng kanyang defense sa mga allegations laban sa kanya, ang mangyayari po du’n, lahat ng na-submit… ay magiging basis na po ng prosecutor du’n sa kanyang resolution,” Clavano said in a press briefing on Monday, Nov. 3.

[Translation: When a respondent is in default, he was unable to submit his defense on the allegations against him, everything that was submitted would be the prosecutor’s basis on his/her resolution.]

The assistant ombudsman said Co can still submit a counter-affidavit within the allowable period.

Without disclosing the former lawmaker’s whereabouts, Clavano said Co can file a counter-affidavit abroad.

“You can go to a Philippine embassy para po mag- (to) swear in sa harap ng isang (before a) consul and then that will be treated as if it was sworn in before a prosecutor which is the actual process,” the assistant ombudsman said.

Clavano said once cases are filed against Co in court, his passport may be requested to be canceled. Moreover, if a warrant of arrest has been released, the government can tap the International Criminal Police Organization for assistance on the apprehension.

Co was a co-founder of construction firm Sunwest, one of the top flood control contractors nationwide. Despite saying he divested from the firm in 2019, he was still considered a beneficial owner.

READ: Zaldy Co may face Sandiganbayan case next month