House Leadership Sets Measures to Ensure Ako Bicol Rep. Zaldy Co Returns to the Philippines

Ako Bicol party-list Representative Zaldy Co has reportedly departed the United States, according to records from the US Customs and Border Protection. Co arrived in New York on August 26 and left the city on September 13, although his subsequent destination remains unknown.

In response, House Speaker Faustino "Bojie" Dy III stated on Monday that the House leadership, in coordination with the House Ethics Committee, will consider appropriate actions to compel Co's return should he fail to appear at the Batasan Complex within 10 days from September 18.

"We will discuss this among the leadership, particularly with the chair of the House Ethics Committee, to determine the necessary measures to ensure Congressman Zaldy Co returns," Speaker Dy said during his first press briefing as House Speaker.

The Ethics Committee is chaired by 4Ps party-list Representative JC Abalos, who is part of the House minority bloc.

Earlier, Speaker Dy revoked the travel authority previously granted to Co and instructed him to return to the Philippines within the specified 10-day period after the notice dated September 18 was issued.