The Sandiganbayan has declared former Ako Bicol Rep. Elizaldy “Zaldy” Co and three officials of Sunwest Construction and Development Corp. as “fugitives from justice.”

The anti-graft court granted the prosecution’s motion to declare Co a “fugitive from justice.”

According to the court, Co clearly evaded justice by failing to comply with the House of Representatives’ order to return within 10 days and instead resigning from his post.

He also allegedly did not comply with subpoenas and did not submit a counter-affidavit to the Ombudsman.

“Given the foregoing, and the fact that accused Co is also charged with a non-bailable offense of malversation through falsification, his intention to evade prosecution is clear,” according to the resolution.

“The Supreme Court defined a ‘fugitive from justice’ as someone who flees to avoid prosecution or punishment. As the accused’s actions and his counsel’s public statements clearly demonstrate a flight to avoid prosecution or punishment, he meets the definition of a fugitive from justice as defined by the law and jurisprudence,” it added.

Consequently, the Sandiganbayan ordered the cancellation of Co’s passport to restrict his movements and facilitate his return to the country to face the charges.

Simultaneously, the court also ordered the cancellation of the passports of Aderma Alcazar (Board of Directors president/chairman), Cesar Buenaventura (Treasurer), and Noel Cao (Board Member) of Sunwest Inc. due to their alleged evasion of the legal process.

The Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) is verifying whether Co is hiding in Portugal.

Sandiganbayan

The Sandiganbayan is a special appellate court in the Philippines with jurisdiction over criminal and civil cases involving public officials accused of graft and corruption. It was established in 1978 under Presidential Decree No. 1606 during the Marcos administration to address the need for a dedicated anti-graft court. Its creation marked a significant step in the country’s legal framework for promoting accountability and integrity in public service.

House of Representatives

The House of Representatives is the lower chamber of the United States Congress, established by the Constitution in 1789. It is composed of representatives elected from congressional districts, with representation based on state population, and it holds primary power to initiate revenue bills and impeach federal officials.

Ombudsman

The Ombudsman is not a specific place or cultural site, but an official public office or institution found in many countries. Its history dates back to 1809 in Sweden, where the first parliamentary ombudsman was established to oversee government administration and protect citizens’ rights from maladministration. Today, ombudsmen act as independent, impartial investigators who handle complaints against public agencies and, in some cases, private organizations.

Supreme Court

The Supreme Court is the highest judicial body in the United States, established in 1789 by Article III of the U.S. Constitution. It is responsible for interpreting federal law and the Constitution, with landmark decisions shaping American civil rights and governance. The Court’s iconic building in Washington, D.C., opened in 1935, symbolizing its role as a co-equal branch of government.

Department of Interior and Local Government

The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) is the executive department of the Philippine government responsible for promoting peace and order, ensuring public safety, and strengthening the capabilities of local government units. It traces its origins to the Philippine Revolution of 1897 and was formally established in its current structure in 1990 to oversee the country’s decentralization and local autonomy following the 1987 Constitution.

Sunwest Construction and Development Corp.

Sunwest Construction and Development Corp. is a private Philippine construction and real estate development company, not a public cultural or historical site. Founded in 1985, it has played a significant role in shaping the modern urban landscape, particularly in Metro Manila, through the development of residential subdivisions, commercial centers, and infrastructure projects. Its history reflects the broader growth of the Philippine property and construction industry in the late 20th and early 21st centuries.

Sunwest Inc.

“Sunwest Inc.” does not appear to refer to a specific public cultural site, historical landmark, or notable place with a widely documented history. It is likely the name of a private business or corporation, such as a real estate developer, financial services company, or agricultural operation, which exists in several regions. Without a specific location or context, a historical or cultural summary is not possible.

Portugal

Portugal is a country in southwestern Europe on the Iberian Peninsula, with a rich history as a global maritime power during the Age of Discovery in the 15th and 16th centuries. Its cultural heritage is reflected in iconic sites like the Jerónimos Monastery in Lisbon and the historic centre of Porto, both UNESCO World Heritage sites. The nation’s distinct identity is also shaped by its traditional Fado music, azulejo tilework, and a legacy of exploration that connected Europe with Africa, Asia, and the Americas.