Fugitive Lawmaker's $13 Million Corruption Scandal in the Philippines

Apr 7, 2026

66 min

Apr 7, 2026 13:31

Exposed: Fugitive lawmaker’s $13-million ghost flood cash trail in the Philippines

## Former Congressman Zaldy Co Implicated in Major Corruption Case

A significant corruption scandal has emerged in the Philippines involving former congressman Zaldy Co. An anti-graft investigation has uncovered a money trail amounting to ₱802 million ($13.3 million) linked to Co, who is currently a fugitive.

## Ghost Projects and Money Laundering

The Sandiganbayan anti-graft court heard testimony from the Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) lawyer Jan Mark Busa, revealing that Sunwest Construction and Development Corp transferred substantial funds to Co's accounts between 2019 and 2025. These transactions are tied to "ghost" flood control projects, including a defective road dike project worth ₱289.4 million.

## Co's Alleged Involvement and Denials

Despite Co's claims of divesting his shares in Sunwest in 2019, evidence suggests he maintained "beneficial ownership" of the company. Prosecutors argue that Co benefited from the misappropriated funds, although he denies direct involvement.

## International Manhunt

Co is believed to be hiding in Europe, using a non-Philippine passport. He has publicly criticized President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. for budget issues related to the scandal. The Philippine government has requested an Interpol Red Notice to facilitate his return.

## Potential Political Fallout

As the final prosecution witness, Co's case involves 15 co-accused. A conviction could have significant political repercussions, as public anger grows over the misuse of disaster funds.

Read the full story at the source

What you need to know to get Emirates ID?

Leave your details and get a guide as a gift to avoid mistakes

Article contents