The government has already traced a web of assets linked to dismissed lawmaker and fugitive Zaldy Co, with the Office of the Ombudsman confirming these connections through the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI), Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG Secretary Juanito Victor “Jonvic” Remulla disclosed on Friday, Dec. 19.
The DILG said on Friday, Dec. 19, that the government will pursue accountability over Co’s alleged involvement in anomalous flood control projects through civil asset forfeiture.
“The legal theory that is going to be applied to Co and others is that there will be Civil Forfeiture of all their assets. All their assets here, and assets there,” Remulla emphasized.
Under Republic Act No. 1379, or the Forfeiture Law, any property found to have been unlawfully acquired by a public officer or employee is declared forfeited in favor of the State.
Co, a former Ako Bicol party-list representative, went into hiding after President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. exposed individuals allegedly involved in ghost flood control projects across the country.
Remulla confirmed that motions for asset forfeiture are now being prepared. Among the properties identified for possible seizure are Co’s two houses in Forbes Park, Makati City. Other assets flagged include the Midas Hotel and Casino, owned through his company Eco Leisure, and the Misibis Bay Resort.
The DILG chief admitted that Co’s arrest has been complicated by reports that he is hiding in Portugal while holding a Portuguese passport.
However, Remulla stressed that authorities remain vigilant and ready to act should Co slip up.
“It is a game of cat and mouse. They make a mistake, we pounce on them,” he said. (Chito Chavez)
