Manila: The Partido Federal ng Pilipinas (PFP) and the Nationalist People’s Coalition (NPC) on Monday urged former Ako Bicol Party-list Rep. Elizaldy Co to return to the Philippines to substantiate his claims regarding alleged budget insertions.
According to Philippines News Agency, Deputy Speaker Ferdinand Hernandez of the 2nd District of South Cotabato emphasized the importance of accountability and transparency in response to the allegations involving Co. He stated that Co must return to the Philippines to provide sworn testimony and face cross-examination, as video recordings made abroad do not hold the same legal weight. Hernandez pointed out that members of the House have voluntarily appeared before the Independent Commission on Infrastructure (ICI) to clarify matters, adhering to due process and the Rule of Law.
Hernandez further highlighted that if Co believes in the validity of his accusations, he should present his case and evidence before the ICI and other investigative bodies in the Philippines. The government, he assured, can provide protection if there are concerns for Co’s safety during his testimony. Hernandez reiterated the call for Co to return home, emphasizing that accountability is both a moral and legal obligation.
In its statement, the NPC noted that Co’s video lacks legal weight as it is unsworn, unnotarized, and produced abroad. The NPC criticized the video for its emotional tone, suggesting that it aims to shift public sentiment by recasting Co as a victim. The NPC stressed that such framing risks distracting from the serious questions about budget anomalies and ghost projects under review.
The NPC clarified that once the National Expenditure Program is submitted, adjustments during the Bicameral Conference Committee come solely from Congress, with Co responsible for House-side changes during the period in question. The NPC urged Co to return and substantiate his claims with evidence and sworn statements, warning the public against consuming unverifiable online content.
The NPC also praised President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. for his role in uncovering budgetary irregularities and initiating investigations and reforms. The NPC expressed confidence that the truth will emerge through evidence, audits, and due process.
Similarly, the Nacionalista Party (NP) urged Co to return and place his claims under oath before the appropriate forums. The NP stated that public institutions cannot act on unverified allegations from abroad and stressed that Co must submit to the scrutiny expected of public servants. The party emphasized that until Co testifies, his statements should not distract from ongoing reforms and good governance efforts in Congress. The NP reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, due process, and accountability alongside the President and Speaker Dy.
