MANILA, Philippines — Senate President Pro Tempore Panfilo “Ping” Lacson confirmed that former Ako Bicol Party-list Representative Zaldy Co will be invited to testify before the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee once he is brought back to the Philippines following his arrest in the Czech Republic.

Lacson, who chairs the Blue Ribbon Committee, said the panel intends to summon Co at the earliest opportunity to shed light on the alleged flood control scam. “Moving forward, kapag nandito na siya…at first opportunity, iimbitahan siya ng Blue Ribbon Committee dahil nung January, pinadalhan namin siya, along with Orly Guteza, ng show cause order kasi nung in-invite namin sila, hindi sila nakadalo,” Lacson explained in a radio interview.

Co was reportedly captured by Czech authorities while attempting to cross the border into Germany, according to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. His name has long been linked to a multi-million peso kickback scheme involving legislators and officials of the Department of Public Works and Highways.

Lacson clarified that the committee would need to secure leave of court before formally inviting Co, given that he has a pending warrant of arrest issued by the Sandiganbayan. The committee had previously issued a show cause order to Co and former Marine Orly Guteza earlier this year, but neither appeared at the hearing.

The Blue Ribbon Committee’s investigation into the flood control controversy has drawn national attention, with allegations of systemic corruption and misuse of public funds. Lawmakers believe Co’s testimony could be crucial in uncovering the extent of the scheme and identifying other personalities involved.

Analysts note that Co’s arrest abroad and potential testimony in the Senate could mark a turning point in the probe, as it may provide direct evidence linking legislators to questionable infrastructure projects. The committee is expected to resume hearings once Co is repatriated, with Lacson assuring the public that the investigation will continue to pursue accountability.

This development underscores the Senate’s determination to press forward with its inquiry into corruption in flood control projects, even as legal hurdles remain in bringing key figures like Zaldy Co before the committee.