The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) confirmed that none of the 13 individuals ordered arrested alongside former Ako Bicol Partylist Representative Zaldy Co were found during attempts to serve warrants at all listed home and office addresses.
NBI Director Lito Magno said teams had already tried to implement 13 warrants.
“We have served at least 13… unfortunately, wala na po lahat iyong mga nasabi nating pinaghahanap,” he said, adding that those present at the locations reported the accused had long moved out or had not been seen “for quite some time.”
Magno emphasized that the NBI must continue implementing the warrants regardless of outcome, noting: “Iyan ang utos ng korte… kailangan iyang isauli sa korte para makapagbigay ng kautusan.”
He confirmed the bureau is tracking Co’s whereabouts amid reports that his last known location was Japan, and is preparing to request an Interpol red notice. Co faces a non-bailable malversation charge before the Sandiganbayan 7th Division.
Magno appealed directly to Co: “Mas maganda, habang ang pagsuko ay puwede mo pang mapili para habang may dignidad ka pa… kaysa maging isa kang fugitive at hahabulin ka pa.”