THE Nationalist People’s Coalition (NPC) has issued a statement expressing concern over a recent video message released by former congressman Zaldy Co.
The NPC emphasized the need for caution and reliance on evidence, rather than “dramatized narratives,” in understanding the issues at hand.
The NPC pointed out that the video, being “unsworn, unnotarized, unauthenticated and produced abroad,” carries no legal weight as formal testimony. The coalition suggested that the “emotional and theatrical tone” of the video appeared to be an attempt to shift public sentiment and portray Co as a victim, rather than the official responsible for House-side adjustments during the 2025 budget process.
“Such framing risks distracting the public from the serious questions surrounding anomalous insertions and alleged ghost projects that are currently under review by oversight bodies,” the NPC stated.
The coalition clarified the budget process, stating that once the National Expenditure Program is submitted, adjustments during the Bicameral Conference Committee originate solely from Congress. “No external entity can introduce insertions at that stage. During the period in question, responsibility for House-side changes rested with Mr. Co. Suggestions that attempt to place accountability elsewhere are inconsistent with long-established budget procedures,” the statement read.
The NPC urged the public to be wary of online content lacking verification and stressed that “emotional messaging should not be used to overshadow legitimate audits, inquiries or the work of institutions tasked with determining the facts.”
The coalition suggested that if Mr. Co wishes to pursue his claims, he should execute a sworn affidavit, submit supporting documents, and appear before the appropriate authorities. “These steps—not unsworn recordings—will allow for a clear and credible resolution of the issues at hand,” the NPC stated.
The NPC also commended the President for taking the lead in uncovering irregularities in the budgetary process, directing investigations, and ordering institutional reforms within the DPWH.
“The Nationalist People’s Coalition believes that the truth will be determined by evidence, by audits and by due process,” the statement concluded. “Let the facts, not dramatized narratives, guide the public’s understanding of this matter.”
