Zaldy Co Faces Passport Cancellation, Global Manhunt Next

The Office of the Ombudsman is preparing to request the cancellation of the passport of resigned Ako-Bicol party-list Representative Elizaldy “Zaldy” Co and to seek the issuance of an Interpol Red Notice to compel his return to the Philippines, following the filing of criminal charges related to an allegedly substandard flood control project in Oriental Mindoro.

On Tuesday, November 18, the Ombudsman filed graft and malversation charges before the Sandiganbayan against Co, several officials of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), and executives of Sunwest Corporation. The complaint stems from allegations that the group conspired in the implementation of a flood control project that reportedly failed to meet required standards, resulting in possible losses to the government.

Assistant Ombudsman Mico Clavano explained that once the Sandiganbayan issues an arrest warrant for Co, this will serve as the legal basis for both passport cancellation and the request for international assistance through Interpol.

“On the basis of that warrant, we have several remedies,” Clavano said. “We can ask the court to cancel the passport of Zaldy Co. Once that is canceled, his movements will be more restricted. He will no longer be able to travel easily from one country to another.”

Clavano added that the government may also request an Interpol Red Notice, which would allow global law enforcement agencies to track Co’s whereabouts. “Under an Interpol Red Notice, a country is obligated to arrest the individual and deport or extradite him,” he said.

Co, who resigned from Congress earlier this month, is believed to be outside the Philippines. His camp previously stated that he would not return until he feels his life is no longer under threat.