AKO Bicol Party-list Rep. Atty. Alfredo Garbin on Friday expressed confidence that former congressman Zaldy Co will stand by and prove the allegations he previously made regarding the multibillion-peso flood control controversy, following his reported arrest in Prague, Czech Republic.
Garbin said that based on Co’s earlier video statements, he believes the former lawmaker is prepared to substantiate his claims once he returns to the Philippines.
“One thing for sure is that sa tingin ko, papatunayan niya lahat ng kanyang isiniwalat doon sa kanyang mga videos na nirelease,” Garbin said, noting that Co’s personality and past pronouncements indicate he intends to back up his allegations.
The lawmaker stressed that Co’s testimony could be crucial in uncovering the truth behind the alleged anomalies in flood control projects, which have been linked to ghost projects, substandard infrastructure, and possible misuse of public funds.
At present, Garbin acknowledged that details surrounding Co’s arrest remain limited, with information largely based on the announcement of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.
“Sa ngayon wala tayong verified… nababasehan lang natin ‘yung report at pronouncement ng ating Presidente,” he said.
Garbin added that he has been attempting to reach Co’s family but has yet to obtain confirmation about his condition, detention, and legal plans, citing the time difference abroad. He said they are expecting more concrete information within the day.
Despite this, the lawmaker reiterated the importance of ensuring Co’s safe return to the country, urging the government to provide adequate security so he can participate fully in legal proceedings and investigations.
President Marcos earlier confirmed that Co was arrested in Prague, Czech Republic, reportedly due to issues with his travel documents, and that coordination is underway for his return to the Philippines.
Co, a former AKO Bicol party-list representative and a key figure in the House appropriations committee, resigned in 2025 after being implicated in alleged irregularities involving flood control projects worth billions of pesos.
His earlier public statements, including a series of videos, contained allegations involving other individuals, raising expectations that his testimony may play a significant role in ongoing probes.
