The Sandiganbayan Sixth Division has denied the motion for reconsideration of former Ako Bicol representative Zaldy Co, reaffirming its earlier ruling that he is a fugitive from justice in the malversation case filed against him.
What does the denial on the motion for reconsideration mean?
Because the court refused to revisit the decision, Co remains legally on the run — and the consequences go beyond just court papers:
His name can now be dragged into other issues much like what happened with the 18 Marines situation — where persons technically “absent” in proceedings were still invoked in reports and inquiries. When a public figure cannot be around to answer or clarify allegations in proper court proceedings, others — critics, media, rival camps — are free to use his name in various narratives, whether fair or spurious.
Co had previously promised he would face the allegations properly, yet by failing to appear and failing to file his motions on time, he effectively reneged on that promise. Instead of confronting the charges head‑on, he chose absence — and the court has now made that absence official.
- The court said his motion was denied because it was filed late and lacked merit — meaning he didn’t just lose on substance, he also lost on procedure. This makes it even harder for him to get relief unless he surrenders or goes to a higher court.
- Politically, while the Ako Bicol party‑list continues to exist as an organization, Co’s fugitive status could cast a shadow on the party’s reputation — especially among voters who expect their representatives to answer for serious allegations.
- The clear message from the judiciary: evading accountability will not stop the wheels of justice. If you choose not to face the court, your absence won’t erase the issues — and your name can still be used in public debates, investigations, and even controversies you aren’t there to explain.
Bottomline: Because Zaldy Co is now officially a fugitive, his name is out there — and others can drag it around in other stories, just like what happened in past high‑profile cases. Instead of facing the accusations directly, Co’s absence leaves him open to interpretation, speculation, and even misuse of his name in issues beyond the original case.
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