ICI recommends criminal raps vs Co, 17 others

The Independent ComInfrastructure mission for (ICI) has recommended the filing of criminal and administrative charges against resigned Ako Bicol party-list Rep. Zaldy Co and at least 17 others over an anomalous flood control project in Oriental Mindoro.

- EJ MACABABBAD and DAPHNE GALVEZ

ICI chair Andres Reyes Jr. personally delivered yesterday the body's first interim report-contained in bundles of clipped documents - to the Office of the Ombudsman, recommending the filing of graft, malversation and falsification charges against Co and the others. Reyes did not speak to reporters.

Based on the interim report, the criminal charges include violations of the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act (Republic Act No. 3019), malversation of public funds through falsification of public documents by a public officer (Article 217 in relation to Article 171 of the Revised Penal Code) and violations of the Government Procurement Reform Act (RA 9184).

The administrative charges, include violations of the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees and other potential violations of civil service rules and regulations.

In its report, the ICI said it is the prerogative of the ombudsman "to determine appropriate charges to be filed against erring public officials and private individuals."

According to the report, Co has been recommended to be charged for receiving "unwarranted benefits" in relation to the construction projects of Sunwest Inc., a project contractor linked to his family.

"While Cong. Co claims to have divested his interests, reports suggest he may potentially retain beneficial ownership. The Commission underscores that additional evidence is needed to establish any definitive connection," the ICI said.