The Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) found that resigned lawmaker Zaldy Co allegedly received kickbacks from government projects starting with the National Expenditure Program (NEP) and continuing through the bicameral conference committee (bicam) and unprogrammed allocations (UA).
According to the ICI, Co reportedly demanded 20% to 25% of project funds, with specific percentages varying by funding channel.
Former DPWH engineer Henry Alcantara testified to the scheme, which allegedly involved manipulating project approvals and budget allocations from 2022 to 2025.
Questions have arisen about Co’s influence on the NEP, though the Department of Budget and Management maintains that lawmakers do not interfere during budget preparation.
Co is currently outside the country, and the ICI has recommended filing charges against him for his role in previous anomalous projects, including a P289.5-million flood control project in Oriental Mindoro.
Source: PhilNews24 | October 31, 2025
CO ALLEGEDLY BENEFITED FROM NEP, BICAMERAL, AND UNPROGRAMMED FUND KICKBACKS: ICI
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