A STRONG call was made on Monday urging Rep. Elizaldy “Zaldy” Co to return to the Philippines and face the charges against him, as critics warned that his resignation alone does not amount to accountability.
According to Navotas City Representative Toby Tiangco, “Resignation is not accountability. What the Filipino people deserve is for him to face the music—umuwi siya dito sa Pilipinas, para sagutin ang lahat ng paratang sa kanya,” the statement read.
The Independent Commission on Infrastructure (ICI) has already filed a case against Co before the Office of the Ombudsman over alleged irregularities in the ₱290-million Naujan flood control project. Among the allegations is that the lawmaker demanded 20 to 25 percent in exchange for project approval.
Critics said Co’s resignation and decision to stay abroad instead of confronting the accusations “insult not only our institutions but also the Filipino people.” Tiangco said.
They added that if the embattled lawmaker refuses to face the allegations, it could be seen as “a tacit admission of guilt.”
About the Author
