Ako Bicol party-list representative Elizaldy Co has formally declined to comply with a House order to return to the Philippines by September 29, citing a need for previously scheduled medical treatment and expressing fear that he has already been “prejudged” by colleagues and the public over corruption allegations.
In a letter addressed to House Speaker Faustino Dy III dated September 25, 2025, Co responded to the September 18 revocation of his travel clearance, stating he received the news “with both sadness and grave concern.”
The lawmaker, who is currently abroad, asserted his intention to eventually return and clear his name but voiced “grave apprehension” about his safety and the lack of due process.
“I am very much apprehensive about what awaits me should I return to the Philippines given that the public and your good office have prejudged me,” Co said.
The congressman argued that “false, baseless, and politically-charged statements” made in the Senate, the House, and the media have “condemned me in the court of public opinion.”
He listed several allegations he claims are easily verifiable as false, including:
- Insisting he single-handedly made budget insertions: Co clarified that the 2025 General Appropriations Act was a collegial product approved by both houses of Congress in plenary sessions.
- Denying ownership of an aircraft linked to former president Duterte: He stated he does not own the plane used to ferry Duterte to The Hague, a fact he says is verifiable in aircraft registries.
- Disavowing connection to ‘ZC Victory Fishing Corporation’: Co explained that the “ZC” stands for “Zamboanga City,” not his initials, and that he has no involvement with the company.
- Denying receipt of DPWH funds: He categorically denied receiving any funds from Department of Public Works and Highways projects.
Co concluded his letter by expressing hope that upon his eventual return, he would be “afforded due process” and that the House would ensure his safety and his family.
The House of Representatives has yet to issue a public response to Co’s letter.
