Zaldy Co in Portugal? Passport of fugitive Filipino ex-congressman cancelled

Manila: President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. announced on December 10, 2025 that the passport of fugitive former Ako Bicol Rep. Zaldy Co — resigned House appropriations chair — has been cancelled.

The president has then ordered government agencies and embassies to secure his immediate return amid the on-going multi-billion flood control scam probe, as per the Philippine Information Agency (PIA).

Co, founder of Sunwest Corp. implicated in substandard projects, fled mid-2025 citing medical leave but faces kickback allegations delivered to his Pasig residence.

Simultaneously, contractor Sarah Discaya remains in NBI custody over a separate "ghost" project in Davao Occidental, with Marcos vowing swift warrants.

Marcos emphasised accountability, directing the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) coordination.

Co's evasion — post-resignation — intensifies calls for plunder charges, as whistleblowers detail billions in graft.

GMA and ABS-CBN confirm the passport move, signalling Marcos's anti-corruption momentum ahead of Christmas filings.