IN response to the resignation of Representative Zaldy Co, the Office of Congressman Duke Frasco issued a press statement asserting that Co’s resignation should not erase his alleged crimes or absolve Ako Bicol Party-list, which it claims was the vehicle through which these abuses were committed.
The statement cites Section 141 (h) of the House Rules, which prohibits a member from acquiring any personal pecuniary interest in a business enterprise directly benefited by legislation they authored.
The statement alleges that Co, as a shareholder of construction firms that secured contracts funded by the General Appropriations Act (GAA) and as a co-conspirator in inserting billions for projects benefiting himself and his associates, clearly breached this rule.
According to Frasco’s office, Co’s resignation spared him from potential sanctions by the House but also exposed a weakness in the system. The statement argues that while Co may walk away, Ako Bicol Party-list retains its seat, benefits, and power as if nothing happened, which it deems “not accountability” but “impunity.”
The press statement concludes by calling for accountability to extend beyond individuals. It argues that if consequences are limited only to a nominee, Congress sets a dangerous precedent where members can violate rules, resign to avoid expulsion, and leave their party untouched.
To protect the integrity of institutions, the statement asserts that Ako Bicol Party-list must face investigation, sanction, and, if warranted, disqualification.
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