By Tracy Cabrera
BATASAN, Quezon City — The Sandiganbayan has commenced the first trial concerning the controversial ₱289.5 million flood control project, with its 6th Division hearing the malversation case against Sunwest Corporation. Former Ako Bicol party-list representative and Sunwest co-founder Elizaldy “Zaldy” Co is also named as a respondent.
Assistant Ombudsman Mico Clavano, who filed the complaint last year, explained that the case stems from an inspection of Sunwest’s project, which uncovered significant structural deficiencies.
During the proceedings, state prosecutors called Oriental Mindoro provincial engineer Edylou Tejido as a witness. Tejido, who participated in the inspection, was cross-examined by defense lawyers representing Sunwest officials and several Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) personnel from Region IVB (MIMAROPA).
The defense focused on questioning the inspection procedures, but Tejido affirmed that the evaluation was conducted in coordination with local personnel. Clavano added that a separate inspection on September 9 last year, conducted by DPWH Secretary Vivencio “Vince” Dizon and Oriental Mindoro Governor Humerlito “Bonz” Dolor, found that the steel sheet piles for the road dike fell well below required standards.
Ex-congressman Co has not appeared in court, having been declared a fugitive by the Sandiganbayan. The court is now awaiting his voluntary surrender so he may participate in the trial or pursue judicial remedies.
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