Public Works Secretary Vince Dizon said he is set to testify in the flood control anomaly case against former congressman Zaldy Co, as trial proceedings begin Jan. 20 before the Sandiganbayan.
Dizon confirmed his role as a prosecution witness during a press briefing, saying he is the complainant in the cases filed against Co. The charges stem from alleged irregularities linked to flood control projects.
The Sandiganbayan earlier issued warrants of arrest against Co and several former officials of Sunwest and the Department of Public Works and Highways. The warrants were issued in November. Despite this, Co remains at large.
Authorities have stepped up efforts to locate the former lawmaker. The National Bureau of Investigation has requested that Co be placed under a red notice through INTERPOL, signaling international coordination to track his whereabouts.
In December, the government canceled Co’s Philippine passport. Investigators are also looking into the possibility that he may be holding a Portuguese passport, which could allow him to travel under a different nationality.
Dizon did not provide further details on the substance of his expected testimony but reiterated his commitment to pursue the case as it moves to trial. He said the proceedings are meant to ensure accountability in public infrastructure projects, particularly those intended for flood mitigation.
The upcoming trial marks a key stage in the long-running case, which has drawn public attention due to the scale of the alleged anomaly and the involvement of high-ranking officials. Court proceedings are expected to determine the extent of responsibility in the questioned flood control projects.
