NBI recovers documents in search of Zaldy Co condo

The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) has recovered documents during its search of the condominium unit of resigned congressman Zaldy Co in Taguig City that are considered relevant to an ongoing probe.

NBI spokesperson Palmer Mallari said the search warrant operation conducted Thursday at Co’s condominium was successful.

Agents secured “a lot of documents” that have a “bearing on the investigation,” Mallari, who is also a lawyer, said, noting that the paper trail matched earlier findings of the bureau.

He added that further details could not yet be disclosed to avoid compromising ongoing actions.

Earlier, the NBI obtained a search warrant issued by the Regional Trial Court of Taguig authorizing investigators to seize evidence related to graft cases filed against Co in connection with the allegedly anomalous flood control projects in Oriental Mindoro.

Last week, NBI officer-in-charge Angelito Magno said investigators found documents suggesting Co may still be a beneficial owner of Sunwest Construction, despite his repeated claims that he had divested from the company.

Acting on an inspection order issued by the Makati Regional Trial Court, NBI agents searched two condominium units owned by Co at Horizon Tower in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig, on Tuesday, December 2.

The operation aimed to recover documents linked to alleged bid-rigging and irregularities in flood control projects.

“This inspection order allows us to enter and examine the units for documents related to bid-rigging violations,” Magno said.

“Early findings provide bases to believe that Co may still be a beneficial owner of Sunwest, contrary to his claims of divestment.”

Magno confirmed that documents were recovered but declined to disclose specific details, citing the confidentiality of the inspection order. He added that no cash, jewelry, or other high-value items were found during the search.

The NBI is now cross-referencing the recovered documents with testimonies previously presented to the Senate, including those of former employees allegedly involved in Sunwest transactions.

Initial checks indicate possible corroboration between the documents and earlier statements pointing to Co’s continued involvement in the company.

Magno also said a city hotel allegedly used as a safe house for Sunwest executives was inspected by NBI and Philippine National Police teams, but no evidence was recovered.