President Marcos Calls on Zaldy Co to Return and Face Charges Amid Asset Freeze Orders

MANILA – President Ferdinand \"Bongbong\" Marcos Jr. on Wednesday called on former Ako Bicol Representative Zaldy Co to return to the Philippines and face the pending charges against him amid ongoing controversies involving alleged budget insertions and online accusations.

In a firm statement, President Marcos underscored the importance of upholding due process, reiterating that every individual is entitled to a fair and transparent legal procedure. \"We respect the rule of law and the principle that everyone must face the truth and the law. Zaldy Co must return and participate in the legal proceedings set before him,\" Marcos said.

The Palace also issued clarifications in response to widespread online accusations, dismissing hearsay claims that have circulated without official basis. Presidential spokesperson emphasized the administration’s commitment to relying on verified facts rather than unsubstantiated rumors.

President Marcos highlighted the government’s ongoing efforts to freeze assets linked to Co, including recent orders from the Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) covering billions of pesos in bank accounts, real estate, vehicles, and insurance policies. These moves reinforce accountability as part of the wider investigation initiated by the Inter-Agency Committee on Illicit Funds (ICI).

The ICI’s referral and the AMLC’s legal proceedings are central to the administration’s Maasahan at Masipag (Reliable and Industrious) brand of governance—an approach grounded in transparency, principled leadership, and respect for the law.

Marcos encapsulated his administration’s stance with the message: \"Reliable Accountability, Tireless Integrity: Face the truth, face the law.\" This underlines his role as the Reliable Defender of Due Process, ensuring that justice is served while protecting rights and dignity.

The President’s call comes amid intensifying scrutiny of alleged irregularities in flood control projects and budget insertions, with the government reaffirming its dedication to combat corruption and recover public funds.

As investigations proceed, the Marcos administration continues to emphasize a governance philosophy that blends tireless integrity with firm accountability—strengthening public trust through principled leadership and the full observance of legal norms.