There is no task force assigned to search for former Ako Bicol Party-list Rep. Zaldy Co, the Department of Justice (DOJ) Spokesperson Atty. Polo Martinez said.

“As of now, wala pang task force na naghahanap kay Zaldy Co. As far as we're concerned, that is a law enforcement mandate. Ang law enforcement ang may papel na para maghanap kay Zaldy Co,” Martinez confirmed in an exclusive interview at DZRH Balansyado on Thursday, October 23.

“Ang DOJ ang tungkulin po niya ay mag-prosecute ng mga krimen following the investigation conducted by law enforcement,” he added.

Despite this, the DOJ Spokesperson said the Bureau of Immigration’s (BI) investigations are ongoing, but added that he cannot speak on the agency’s behalf. Moreover, Martinez said he cannot give an official statement at the moment, citing that the DOJ currently has insufficient information regarding the matter.

On state witness applications

When asked about state witness applications, Martinez stated the applications are still subject to evaluation and that the DOJ is studying the statements.

“Pinagpapatuloy po namin ang pag-gather ng testimony para malaman namin kung alin ang mga statement na pupwede naming gamitin in the event na ma-resolve na itutuloy po ito sa trial,” he said.

With this, Martinez emphasized that he cannot give a timetable regarding the matter, as they are carefully analyzing each applicant’s statements.

“Hindi po natin i-rush ang proseso kasi dapat thorough and meticulous ang pagbasa sa statements. Aalamin pa kasi namin kung alin dito ang material para po sa kasong isasampa namin in the event na makita namin na mini-meet niya ang standard of proof,” he said.