Manila, Philippines – The Office of the Ombudsman will reportedly investigate all the names implicated by former Ako Bicol Party-list Rep. Zaldy Co in his ‘revelation video.’
According to Ombudsman Jesus Boying Remulla, they have a ‘motu proprio investigation,’ where even the President is being looked into.
However, Remulla stated that Co must first substantiate his allegations for the investigation to proceed, saying that the claimed ‘insertions in the budget allegedly ordered by the President’ are ‘illogical.’
If Co is worried for his life, Remulla assured the former lawmaker will be protected once he decided to return to the country and swear the truth of the statements or revelations he disclosed.
He said the claimed fear for his life is “nonsense” and Co is capable of hiring competent security. Remulla urged him to coordinate if he’s really afraid for his life.
Remulla emphasized that he needs alive witnesses.
Despite this, he also mentioned why only Co is currently facing charges before the Sandiganbayan.
He explained that the accused cannot be charged all at once, and he maintained that more names will follow once there is solid evidence to implicate them.
Meanwhile, aside from Co, the Discayas will be the next possible to face charges in connection with the flood control scandal.
He said that some cases involving the couple, Curlee and Sarah Discaya, at the Office of the Ombudsman are now ‘submitted for resolution,’ and thus, the filing of charges is expected soon.
According to Ombudsman Remulla, the new cases may be filed this coming Friday.