Ombudsman Office Verifies Alleged 'Surrender Feeler' from Former Lawmaker Zaldy Co
Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Jonvic Remulla has disclosed that the Office of the Ombudsman is currently conducting verification procedures regarding reports that former House Appropriations Committee Chairman Zaldy Co has sent a "surrender feeler" while believed to be hiding in Portugal. This development follows initial difficulties in confirming the information due to its indirect nature.
Challenges in Verifying the Surrender Signal
Secretary Remulla explained that the alleged surrender indication from Co was conveyed through Church channels, but not directly communicated to him by the Church representative. He learned about it through another personality, making it what he described as "4th hand information." This indirect transmission has complicated the verification process, especially since Co's camp has not directly engaged with the government to confirm the intent.
The DILG chief noted that the Church member who spoke with Co is a Filipino based in Portugal, whom Remulla reportedly knows personally. Despite these connections, the lack of direct communication from Co's side has made it challenging to authenticate the surrender feeler.
Possible Change of Heart and Government Openness
Remulla expressed belief that Co may have experienced a "change of heart," similar to former Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Undersecretary Roberto Bernardo's case. This potential shift in stance comes after several months of Co's alleged hiding, prompting him to send signals through intermediaries.
In response, the Philippine government remains open to any communication from Co's camp if the former lawmaker decides to formally surrender and return to the country. Secretary Remulla emphasized the government's willingness to facilitate this process should Co choose to come forward.
Ombudsman's Role in the Investigation
The verification efforts are being spearheaded by the Office of the Ombudsman, led by Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla, who is Secretary Jonvic Remulla's brother. This office is now actively investigating the information based on prior coordination with the DILG.
This case highlights ongoing issues related to flood control anomalies and other allegations connected to Co's tenure, underscoring the importance of thorough verification in such high-profile matters.
