MANILA — Former congressman Elizaldy “Zaldy” Co has finally spoken out on the flood control mess, claiming he was used as a scapegoat in the controversy.
Co revealed that he left the country in July for a medical checkup and intended to return after President Marcos’ SONA. But according to him, then–House Speaker Martin Romualdez told him over the phone:
“Stay out of the country. You will be well taken care of as instructed by the President.”
Co said he followed the instruction, believing he was being protected — only to later realize he was being set up.
“Ginamit nila ako bilang panakip-butas… poster boy ng kanilang sariling kasinungalingan,” Co said.
“Ngayon, hindi na ako mananahimik. Ilalabas ko ang lahat ng katotohanan. May resibo, may ebidensya, at may pangalan.”
Co also alleged that at the start of the 2024 bicameral process, Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman told him that President Marcos wanted ₱100 billion worth of projects inserted into the budget.
He said he confirmed this with Usec. Adrian Bersamin, then reported it to Romualdez, who allegedly replied:
“What the President wants, he gets.”
Co questioned the President’s recent remarks distancing himself from the budget:
“Bakit sinasabi ni Pangulo na hindi niya makilala ang budget, samantalang lahat na ibinawas at idinagdag ay humihingi ng approval sa kanya si Sec. Mina Pangandaman?”
This story is still developing. Stay tuned for updates.
