The Department of Justice (DOJ) on Friday said that all cases filed before the Sandiganbayan against resigned Ako Bicol Party-list representative Zaldy Co and 17 other personalities linked to alleged flood control project anomalies were initiated solely by the Office of the Ombudsman, which will also be the primary recipient of any arrest warrants that may be issued.

According to DOJ spokesman Polo Martinez, the Ombudsman leads the prosecution of the cases and therefore would be furnished copies of any warrants from the anti-graft court.

Martinez said in a message, “All cases filed with the Sandiganbayan against Zaldy Co, or any personality involved in the flood control anomalies, were initiated by the Office of the Ombudsman. Thus, it is the OMB that would be furnished copies of arrest warrants issued."

While the DOJ is not the lead agency in the cases, it remains prepared to support the Ombudsman if requested, Martinez added.

He also said, “The DOJ, however, remains ready to assist the Office of the Ombudsman should they seek our assistance."