Manila, Philippines – Following the ongoing controversy over the multi trillion anomalies in flood control projects involving public officials former Ako Bicol Partylist Rep. Zaldy Co, who is currently outside the country.
According to Malacañang Palace, the Department of Justice (DOJ) has already requested a Blue Notice to monitor the current whereabouts of the former lawmaker.
The National Union of Cooperatives (NUC) demands public accountability through a manifesto against corruption amidst the ongoing investigations on the misuse of public infrastructure funds.
NUC believes that political dynasties are the main root cause of corruption in the country.
The NUC also demands CO to return to the country to answer the allegations against the lawmaker, particularly concerning the flood control funds and alleged budget insertions.
The manifesto of NUC demands full investigation, and prosecution of the persons and organizations involved in the misuse of public funds.
Aside from Co, Congressman Martin Romualdez is also implicated, having been initially named by the Discaya as allegedly receiving kickbacks from the projects.
NUC stated asking for forgiveness is not enough; it must be accompanied by punishment and the recovery of the alleged stolen wealth of anyone involved in corruption.
The group also stands for good governance to rebuild trust and is against any form of corruption.
If the funds for the ghost projects and flood control had been properly used, the group claims that over five hundred thousand families could have been helped.
The NUC called for transparency in government bidding, a lifetime ban for corrupt officials and contractors, as well as the protection of whistleblowers.