Resigned party-list lawmaker ‘Zaldy’ Co.
On submitting an initial interim report to the Office of the Ombudsman, the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) is recommending the filing of charges against resigned Ako Bicol party-list representative Elizaldy ‘Zaldy’ Co over the anomalous PHP289.5-million flood control project in Naujan, Oriental Mindoro.
Based on the 32-page report, the ICI endorsed the possible filing of graft, malversation and falsification complaints against Co and 13 Department of Public Works and Highways officials over their alleged participation in the dike project along the Mag-Asawang Tubig River.
On scrutiny, the ICI noted that the steel sheet piles installed in the said dike measured only about 2.5 to 3 meters in length despite the contract’s detailed engineering design requiring 12-meter piles.
“If applied across the project, this discrepancy could potentially result in public losses estimated at over PHP63 million,” the ICI pointed out in its report.
The Commission likewise cited apparent deficiencies in documentation supporting progress billings.
“Several payments were approved despite missing records and, in some instances, identical photographs were reused to justify separate billings,” it said.
“These circumstances may indicate lapses in project verification. Certifications by DPWH officials attesting to compliance with specifications and workmanship thus appear questionable and require further investigation,” it added.
The ICI further disclosed that Co was named for alleged “receipt of unwarranted benefits in relation to construction projects” of government contractor firm Sunwest Incorporated, which reportedly has historical links to the resigned sectoral congressman.
Co had earlier claimed that he had divested his interests in the company, but according to reports, he still has potential beneficial ownership in the company. The Commission, however, underscored that additional evidence is needed to establish any definitive connection.
“At this stage, the findings remain preliminary. The ICI has recommended that the Ombudsman evaluate whether potential violations may exist under the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act, Malversation and Falsification provisions of the Revised Penal Code, the Government Procurement Reform Act, and the Code of Conduct for Public Officials and Employees,” the ICI clarified.
At this juncture, it disclosed that “(it) will be submitting further evidence, within 15 days” while emphasizing that it does not make categorical findings of guilt and responsibility for determining liability rests with the proper authorities.
In ending, the Commission explained that its interim report is “intended to assist in ensuring accountability in infrastructure projects and in protecting the integrity of public funds.”