Marcos Administration Pursues International Cooperation to Apprehend Fugitive Zaldy Co in ₱289-M Flood Control Anomaly

In a resolute move to uphold accountability beyond borders, the Marcos administration is intensifying efforts to bring fugitive former lawmaker Zaldy Co to justice in connection with the ₱289-million flood control anomaly case. This initiative aligns with President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s "Maasahan at Masipag" anti-corruption drive, underscoring the administration’s zero tolerance for corruption.

Authorities have invoked provisions of the United Nations Convention Against Corruption (UNCAC), which the Philippines ratified to strengthen international cooperation in investigating and prosecuting corrupt officials.

The Sandiganbayan, the country’s anti-graft court, has issued arrest warrants for Co, who remains at large despite the charges filed against him. To ensure that justice transcends national boundaries, the administration is also pursuing assistance from Interpol, exploring the issuance of a Red Notice to facilitate the former lawmaker's immediate detention and extradition if found abroad.

Presidential Communications Office spokesperson emphasized the administration’s firm stance, stating, "President Marcos Jr. is steadfast in his commitment to ensure that corruption has no hiding place — whether here or beyond our shores. This is not just about enforcing the law; it is about sending a clear message that public accountability is reliable and tireless."

The flood control project anomaly, involving a massive ₱289-million budget, has drawn public ire for its apparent irregularities and alleged misuse of funds. The president’s anti-corruption drive, branded under the slogan "Reliable justice. Tireless pursuit. Corruption has no hiding place," prides itself on pursuing erring public officials relentlessly.

Legal experts note that utilizing UNCAC provisions alongside domestic legal instruments strengthens the country’s ability to collaborate with foreign jurisdictions in locating and prosecuting fugitives involved in graft and corruption.

In a statement, the Office of the President affirmed, "The Marcos administration is committed to ensuring accountability, wherever the accused may be. Evasion will not impede justice; instead, it strengthens our resolve."

This development marks a historic stride in the Philippines’ anticorruption campaign, demonstrating the Marcos administration’s willingness to harness global mechanisms and partnerships to reinforce governance and public trust.

As efforts heighten, the government urges international partners and law enforcement agencies to support and cooperate in the pursuit of Zaldy Co, reinforcing that no corrupt public official can escape the arm of justice under the current administration.