The government’s corruption cases linked to anomalous flood control projects are moving forward, with court proceedings scheduled and senior officials confirming their participation in upcoming trials.
During a press conference on January 12, the Department of Public Works and Highways confirmed that the Sandiganbayan trial of former lawmaker Zaldy Co is set to begin on January 20.
DPWH Secretary Vince Dizon said he will personally testify in the case, stating, “On January 20, ako’y magtetestigo sa Sandiganbayan sa trial ni former Congressman Zaldy Co.”
Dizon added that his testimony will not be limited to a single proceeding, explaining that he is the complainant in multiple cases connected to the alleged misuse of public funds in flood control projects. “Dahil ako ang complainant sa marami sa mga kasong ito, makikita ninyo akong magtetestigo sa maraming mga kaso sa mga susunod na linggo at mga susunod na buwan,” he said.
Authorities have confirmed that arrest warrants have been issued against Co and several co-accused in connection with the cases. The allegations center on irregularities in flood control projects that were funded using public money.
The January 12 briefing marked a shift from preliminary investigation to active prosecution, with officials signaling that long-running cases are now entering the judicial phase. Dizon said the government intends to pursue accountability through the courts, with proceedings expected to unfold in the coming weeks.
The outcome of the Sandiganbayan trial is being closely watched, as it will test whether years-old allegations involving major public infrastructure projects will finally result in judicial resolution.
