House Probe Eyes ₱17B Flood Control Funds Linked to Rep. Zaldy Co

 The House of Representatives tri-committee investigating alleged irregularities in flood control projects is considering summoning former appropriations chairman Rep. Zaldy Co after revelations that more than ₱17 billion in allocations were linked to his office and allied groups.

During a recent hearing, House leaders said any lawmaker found to have connections to questionable contracts or projects would be invited to explain their involvement. The panel is currently looking into reports of ghost projects and irregular disbursements within the Department of Public Works and Highways.

Rep. John Dalipe Tiangco disclosed that out of the ₱17 billion in flood control allocations, around ₱13 billion was traced to projects associated with Co. Another ₱2.2 billion went to Ako Bicol, while ₱2 billion was earmarked for the Barangay Health Workers party-list.

The revelations have intensified scrutiny on the role of lawmakers in influencing project funding, with investigators raising concerns over whether these allocations were funneled to legitimate infrastructure or used for questionable transactions.

Lawmakers stressed that the inquiry will not spare anyone, including members of Congress, if evidence shows their involvement in anomalies. The tri-committee underscored that accountability is necessary to address widespread corruption in infrastructure spending.

The flood control probe comes amid growing public frustration over persistent flooding in urban centers, with billions in government funds meant for mitigation projects now under suspicion of misuse.