Palace Press Officer Usec. Claire Castro on Monday said that former Ako Bicol Rep. Zaldy Co should face the accusations against him.

In a press briefing, Castro said Co cannot evade the allegations and must defend his rights by presenting the evidence in his possession.

Castro further clarified that stepping down does not exempt him from possible legal cases.

"Kung nababanggit ang kaniyang pangalan, definitely dapat niya po itong sagutin. Dahil kung hindi niya po ito masasagot, lalabas lamang po itong guilty," Castro said in a press briefing.

Castro stressed that Co should face the accusations head-on and defend himself with evidence.

"Kung magkakaroon man siya ng kaso at maisasampa, hindi po niya ito maiiwasan. Hindi niya po ito matatakbuhan," she said.

"Mas maganda po rito kung siya man po ay masasampahan ng kaso, ipaglaban na lang niya ang kanyang karapatan at ipaglaban ang katotohanan na naaayon sa kanyang mga ebidensya,” Castro added.

Questions were raised on whether Co’s resignation might allow him to avoid accountability or flee the Philippines, prompting officials to address the concerns.

In response, the Department of Justice (DOJ) confirmed that it has requested Interpol to issue a Blue Notice for Co, which would help track his movements.

According to DOJ Assistant Secretary Mico Clavano, the Philippines is still awaiting Interpol’s response to its request.

"Kakakausap pa lang po natin kanina kay DOJ Asec. Mikko Clavano, pero ang sabi po niya ay waiting pa rin po sila ng response. So hintayin na lang po natin," Castro explained.

Co resigned from his post as congressman amid allegations linking him to kickbacks from flood control projects.