Former Ako Bicol party-list Rep. Zaldy Co claimed on Nov. 24 that the Marcos administration wants to declare him a terrorist, in a video posted on his official Facebook page. He said he fears returning to the Philippines due to threats to his life, adding, “Meron kaming natanggap na balita, papalabasin ng administrasyon na ako ay isang terorista sa loob at labas ng Pilipinas.”
Co said the alleged plan aims to “bury me along with the truth,” stating, “Para mailibing ako kasama ang katotohanan kahit saan man ako pumutan.” He emphasized the public must know the facts, reiterating accusations that he delivered P56 billion in kickbacks for President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and former House Speaker Martin Romualdez. In earlier videos, Co claimed a P100-billion budget insertion for 2025 was directly ordered by Marcos.
Co is facing legal action related to anomalies in flood control projects. A warrant of arrest has been issued, and Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla confirmed that Interpol issued a blue notice for Co, allowing authorities to gather additional information about his location and activities.
President Marcos addressed Co’s claims during a press conference, saying, “Anyone can go online and claim and say all kinds of things. Paulit-ulit but it means nothing.” He added that Co should return to the Philippines to face his cases.
The dispute has heightened tensions between Co and the Marcos administration, combining serious corruption allegations, terror-tag claims, and international notices that continue to draw public and media attention.
