Rep. Elizaldy Co
THE anti-graft court Sandiganbayan has ordered the seizure of 16 properties owned by resigned lawmaker Zaldy Co, with an estimated total value exceeding PHP 215 million. This action was taken in response to a petition filed by prosecutors, who argued that these properties serve as sufficient security to cover Co’s civil liabilities stemming from graft and malversation cases related to a flood control project.
In a 13-page decision promulgated on March 4 and made public on March 9, the Sandiganbayan Fifth Division found “sufficient grounds” to grant the prosecution’s ex parte motion for a writ of preliminary attachment. The court issued the order to attach properties in various locations, including Pasig City, Makati City, Quezon City, and Lipa, Batangas, pending the resolution of the case. The properties are now under court custody while the legal proceedings continue.
The court’s decision outlined the locations of eight properties: Pasig City, four in Makati, three in Quezon City, and one in Lipa, Batangas. The prosecution argued that these properties are enough to cover Co’s civil liability if he is found guilty of the charges related to the alleged anomalous flood control project in Naujan, Mindoro Oriental. The move aims to ensure that there are sufficient assets to satisfy any potential judgment against him.
Co faces multiple charges of graft and malversation filed by the Office of the Ombudsman in November 2025, connected to the flood control project. Warrants of arrest have already been issued by the Sandiganbayan, and he is among the accused in the case. The court’s order to seize his properties underscores the gravity of the charges and the government’s commitment to securing assets that may be used to settle liabilities if he is convicted.
