Ako Bicol Rep. Garbin Confident Elizaldy Co Will Address Allegations Amid Flood Control Project Probe

Ako Bicol party-list Representative Alfredo Garbin has voiced his confidence that Representative Elizaldy Co will adequately respond to the allegations connected to the flood control project controversy.

"I am coordinating with his lawyers because he is consulting with them. He will definitely address these baseless accusations," Garbin stated. He added, "From what I know, he intends to contest all these claims."

When questioned about Co's current whereabouts, Garbin said he was uncertain. "I am also unsure if he is still in the United States. The latest information I have is that he has a scheduled medical checkup in Boston on September 24. That was our conversation two weeks ago," he explained.

The remarks come in the wake of a Senate Blue Ribbon Committee hearing held on Tuesday, where former Department of Public Works and Highways Engineer Henry Alcantara implicated Co as one of those who allegedly received kickbacks. Co, who chaired the House Committee on Appropriations during the 19th Congress, is also said to have promoted budget insertions tied to the controversy.

Despite the political turmoil, Garbin assured that the Ako Bicol party-list continues to pursue its programs and advocacies without disruption. "We remain fully committed to our efforts in Bicol. Our programs and advocacies proceed unabated, and we are not deterred," he affirmed.

He also acknowledged the emotional weight of the situation but emphasized the party-list's resolve. "It would be hypocritical to say that we are unaffected. Nevertheless, we are intensifying our advocacy efforts and maintaining my active role in the House of Representatives," Garbin concluded.