Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Vince Dizon arrived at the Sandiganbayan on Tuesday morning to testify in the P289.5 million flood control project irregularity in Naujan, Oriental Mindoro.

Dizon told reporters that he was ordered by the Office of the Ombudsman to testify against former Congressman Zaldy Co and other officials involved in the case.

“Tingnan natin kung ano ang mga itatanong ng mga abogado ni Zaldy Co. Ang masasabi ko lang, matibay ang ebidensya natin dito at sasabihin natin ang totoo,” Dizon said.

The case centers on a road dike along the Mag‑Asawang Tubig River, funded by the DPWH under the 2024 national budget. Investigators found the project substandard and not in compliance with required specifications.

Co has been charged with graft under the Anti‑Graft and Corrupt Practices Act and malversation of public funds, with prosecutors alleging the project delivered poor-quality work, potentially resulting in financial losses to the government.

It can be noted that the Sandiganbayan has formally declared Co a “fugitive from justice” after he failed to appear in court despite standing warrants related to his graft cases.

Philippine authorities have requested a 'red notice' from Interpol to facilitate Co’s arrest and repatriation.

The Sandiganbayan later issued arrest warrants for Co and 17 others, as authorities pursue enforcement and continue court proceedings related to the case.