MANILA, Philippines — Following the dramatic arrest of former Ako Bicol Representative Elizaldy “Zaldy” Co in the Czech Republic, Mamamayang Liberal Party-list Representative Leila de Lima has called for a “simultaneous” and aggressive investigation into the multi-billion peso budget and flood control scandals.
In a statement released on Friday, April 17, 2026, De Lima emphasized that Co’s detention abroad should serve as a catalyst for a full-scale public reckoning, rather than just a legal procedure.
De Lima’s call for action focuses on both the extradition of the former lawmaker and the transparency of his potential testimony:
- Expedited Deportation: De Lima urged the Philippine government to “waste no time” in bringing Co back to the country to face the numerous graft and malversation charges filed against him.
- Concurrent Investigations: She argued that the search for the truth regarding the 2025 budget mess and anomalous infrastructure projects should not wait for Co’s physical return. Investigations by various agencies should proceed concurrently to ensure that “all corrupt are held accountable.”
- A Full Disclosure: The Representative noted that Co should be compelled to divulge everything he knows, including evidence he claimed to possess regarding higher-ranking officials’ involvement in the corruption network.
De Lima’s sentiments were echoed by other lawmakers and advocacy groups who see Co’s arrest as a pivotal moment for the rule of law:
- Makabayan Bloc: Representatives Antonio Tinio, Sarah Elago, and Renee Co stated that Co’s return must not be a “media spectacle” but the start of a deep dive into the “system of corruption in public works.” They highlighted the importance of his testimony regarding his previous allegations against President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and former Speaker Martin Romualdez.
- Akbayan Party-list: Representative Chel Diokno called the arrest a “welcome development,” noting it is a chance for Co to finally answer for the 2025 budget insertions and substandard flood control projects under the scrutiny of the law.
President Marcos confirmed on Friday that Co remains in Czech custody after being denied entry into Germany due to lack of proper documentation. The Department of Justice (DOJ) is currently coordinating with Czech authorities to facilitate his return, a process that officials estimate could take between one to three weeks.
Co, who once headed the powerful House Committee on Appropriations, fled the country in late 2025 under the guise of a medical procedure. While in hiding, he released a series of explosive videos accusing the administration of orchestrating ₱100 billion in budget insertions.
“The people do not forget,” Diokno reminded. As the government prepares for Co’s repatriation, the pressure is mounting for an investigation that goes beyond a single individual and addresses the systemic flaws in the national budgeting process.