The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) clarified that it has not received any court directive to cancel former Ako Bicol Representative Zaldy Co’s passport, even as legal actions tied to the flood control scandal intensify.
In a statement, the DFA emphasized that it can only cancel a passport “upon receipt of a court order issued by a competent Philippine court,” citing Sections 4 and 10 of the New Philippine Passport Act.
“As of this time, the Department has not received such an order,” it said.
The clarification followed President Bongbong Marcos’ confirmation that arrest warrants have been issued against Co and 17 officials from the DPWH and Sunwest Corporation over alleged anomalies in flood control projects.
In a recorded message, the President ordered immediate enforcement: “Arestuhin na ninyo sila. Siguraduhin maisagawa ito nang mabilis at tama. Gumugulong na ang hustisya.” He stressed there would be no delays or special treatment.
Marcos also vowed to see the investigation through: “Ako ang nagsimula nitong lahat, ako ang magtatapos. Asahan po ninyo na wala pang tigil itong aming ginagawa.”
Co, who is currently abroad, earlier informed authorities he would not return due to alleged threats to his life.