House Speaker Issues Deadline for Ako Bicol Rep. Zaldy Co to Return Amid Corruption Probe

House Speaker Faustino "Bojie" Dy III has formally demanded that Ako Bicol Party-list Representative Zaldy Co return to the Philippines by Monday, September 29, 2025, to address pending allegations against him.

In a letter dated Friday, September 26, Speaker Dy warned that failure to comply would be interpreted as a refusal to cooperate with the House’s lawful processes, prompting the initiation of disciplinary and legal measures.

This ultimatum came shortly after Co’s office released a response regarding the Speaker’s earlier decision to revoke his travel clearance on September 18, which required Co to return within ten days. Speaker Dy’s latest communication makes the deadline explicit.

Dy, who serves as the representative for Isabela’s 6th district, informed reporters that Co’s correspondence has been forwarded to the House Committee on Ethics, where a complaint against Co is currently under review.

"If you choose to come back, the House will work with the appropriate authorities to ensure the safety of you and your family," Dy assured, referring to Co, who once chaired the Committee on Appropriations during the 19th Congress.

The Speaker emphasized that the revocation of Co’s travel clearance was intended to provide a proper platform for him to respond to the allegations in person. "Returning home will allow you to directly respond to the complaint and comprehensively present the defenses outlined in your letter," Dy stated.

He further underscored that resolving the issues through correspondence while abroad is inappropriate, insisting that Co must appear before the proper forum to address the charges.

Representative Co is a key figure implicated in the controversy surrounding the corruption allegations tied to flood control projects. Reports indicate that he is currently abroad seeking treatment for a heart condition.