Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Vince Dizon is confident that former Ako Bicol Party-list Representative Zaldy Co will soon face authorities, saying his “world will get smaller” once legal measures proceed.
In a radio interview on Wednesday, November 27, Dizon claimed that Co may soon be photographed for a mugshot.
“Tingin ko po, paparating na po ‘yan. Halimbawa po kay former Congressman Zaldy Co,” he said.
He then quipped: “Siguro wala naman pong makakapagsabi na maliit si former Congressman Zaldy Co. Ang ating problema lang ay nasa abroad po siya.”
Dizon said they are awaiting the Sandiganbayan’s decision on the cancellation of Co’s passport, following the directive of President Bongbong Marcos.
“Pero once na, halimbawa po kahapon [inanusyo] na rin po ng ating Pangulo, na makakasenla na rin po pasaporte ni former Congressman Zaldy Co. Hinihintay na lang po natin ang order ng Sandiganbayan,” he explained.
He added that such a step would severely limit Co’s movements abroad: “Once na nangyari na po ‘yon, tingin ko liliit na ang mundo ni former Zaldy Co dahil hindi na siya freely makakaikot.”
Dizon further revealed that Philippine authorities are coordinating with various international law enforcement agencies to track Co’s whereabouts—similar to the process used in the capture of former Negros Oriental 3rd District Representative Arnie Teves.
“Makikipag-cooperate na rin po ang ating law enforcement sa iba’t ibang law enforcement sa ibang bansa. Kagaya ng ginawa kay former Congressman Arnie Teves na nahuli din naman po eventually,” he said.
The DPWH chief also disclosed that eight congressmen have been recommended for charges over alleged ownership of construction companies tied to hundreds of DPWH contracts.
“Mayroon na po tayong ni-refer kahapon kasama ang ICI recommending cases against eight (8) congressmen na mayroong allegedly pagmamay-ari ng mga construction company na may daan-daang kontrata sa DPWH,” Dizon said.
He did not identify the lawmakers involved, and Co has yet to issue a response.