House Appropriations Committee Chairperson Zaldy Co has refused to accept the Ombudsman’s directive requiring him to file a counter-affidavit in connection with an ongoing investigation.
The order was reportedly delivered to Co’s office, but his legal team declined to receive it, citing procedural irregularities and lack of formal endorsement.
The directive stems from a complaint filed against Co regarding alleged irregularities in government fund allocations.
Co’s camp emphasized that they have not received any official subpoena or formal notice that would legally compel a response at this stage.
The Office of the Ombudsman has yet to issue a statement regarding Co’s refusal and the next steps in the investigation.
Legal experts note that declining to accept an order does not necessarily halt proceedings, and the Ombudsman may proceed with the case based on available evidence.
This development adds tension to the ongoing scrutiny of public officials amid broader calls for transparency and accountability in government spending.