Is Zaldy Co's Latest Video Reigniting the Kasamaan vs. Kadiliman Debate?

On 14 November 2023, former Ako-Bicol party-list representative Zaldy Co implicated President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in a corruption scandal involving flood control projects, claiming he is being used as a scapegoat. His statements have stirred significant public reaction, highlighting a complex interplay of political alliances and corruption allegations in the Philippines. This situation exemplifies the ongoing struggle between various factions within Philippine politics, often described as a battle between "Kadiliman" (darkness) and "Kasamaan" (evil).

Last updated: 14 November 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

The recent allegations made by Zaldy Co have sparked intense discussions across social media and among political analysts in the Philippines. Co, who has been out of the country since July 2023, claims that he is being used as a scapegoat in a broader anti-corruption campaign led by the Marcos administration. His accusations implicate high-level officials, including President Marcos and former House Speaker Martin Romualdez, in a scandal involving substantial kickbacks related to flood control projects. The current atmosphere is charged with speculation about political motives and the potential repercussions for those involved.

Key takeaways

• Zaldy Co claims he is being used as a scapegoat in a corruption scandal involving flood control projects.
• Allegations include substantial kickbacks and budget insertions linked to President Marcos and other officials.
• The public response reflects deep distrust of political figures and ongoing concerns about corruption.

Timeline: how we got here

The timeline of events surrounding the allegations against Zaldy Co and the Marcos administration is crucial for understanding the current political climate in the Philippines:

• 19 July 2023: Zaldy Co leaves the Philippines for a supposed medical check-up.
• 28 July 2023: Co is advised by Romualdez not to return following Marcos’ State of the Nation Address.
• 14 November 2023: Co releases a video implicating President Marcos in corruption, stating he’s being set up as a fall guy.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

Zaldy Co's video statement on 14 November has introduced new allegations regarding the involvement of President Marcos in the flood control corruption scandal. This marks a significant escalation in his claims, as he directly names the president and other officials, suggesting a coordinated effort to shift blame onto him.

What was already established

Prior to Co’s video, there were existing allegations of corruption linked to various infrastructure projects under the Marcos administration, particularly regarding the use of substandard materials. Investigations by the Senate and the Independent Commission for Infrastructure were already underway, with scrutiny on how funds were allocated and spent.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

While the immediate effects of this scandal may seem distant for UK consumers, the broader implications of political corruption can impact foreign investment and economic stability in the Philippines. This situation could affect trade relations and economic forecasts, which are of interest to UK businesses operating in or with ties to the Philippines.

Businesses and jobs

For UK businesses, this turmoil could mean increased scrutiny and risk assessments when engaging with Philippine construction and infrastructure sectors. Companies may need to reassess their partnerships and compliance protocols, especially if allegations of corruption linger in public discourse.

Policy and regulation

The fallout from these allegations may prompt changes in regulatory scrutiny both in the Philippines and internationally. UK firms might need to stay informed about potential changes in laws or guidelines governing foreign investment and procurement practices in the Philippines.

Numbers that matter

• P100 billion: Allegedly inserted into the budget for infrastructure projects, as claimed by Co.
• Billions of pesos: The total amount reportedly involved in kickbacks related to flood control projects.
• 50%: An estimate of public sentiment reflecting distrust in political figures, according to social media commentary.

Definitions and jargon buster

• Kadiliman: A term used to describe darkness or negativity, often in a political context.
• Kasamaan: Translates to evil or wrongdoing, used in the context of political factions.
• P100 billion: Referring to the Philippine peso, the currency of the Philippines, where "P" stands for pesos.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

In the immediate future, observers should monitor any official responses from the Marcos administration regarding Co's allegations and whether further investigations will be initiated. The political atmosphere could change rapidly depending on public and media reactions.

Medium term (1–6 months)

Over the next few months, the potential for additional revelations or resignations within the Philippine government may evolve as investigations progress. The political landscape may shift, influencing upcoming elections and legislative processes.

Signals to watch

• Official statements from the Marcos administration regarding the allegations.
• Developments in the Senate investigations into the corruption claims.
• Public sentiment shifts reflected in social media and opinion polls.

Practical guidance

Do

• Stay informed about the situation by following reliable news sources.
• Engage with discussions about foreign investment policies in the Philippines.
• Consider the impacts of political instability on business operations.

Don’t

• Ignore the potential implications of these allegations for international relations.
• Assume that the situation will remain static; political dynamics can change quickly.
• Overlook the significance of public sentiment on political decisions.

Checklist

• Review risk assessments for investments in the Philippines.
• Monitor relevant news for updates on the corruption investigations.
• Engage stakeholders in discussions about the implications of political instability.
• Evaluate compliance measures in dealings with Philippine government contracts.
• Stay aware of public sentiment and how it may affect the political landscape.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

The allegations made by Zaldy Co are still developing, and the political landscape in the Philippines can shift rapidly. It remains uncertain how these claims will affect the Marcos administration and the future of political alliances. Moreover, public opinion can significantly influence political decisions, which adds another layer of complexity to the situation.

Bottom line

The implications of Zaldy Co's allegations against President Marcos are profound, highlighting ongoing issues of corruption and political machinations in the Philippines. As the situation unfolds, it is crucial for both domestic and international observers to stay vigilant and informed about the potential impacts on governance and economic stability.

FAQs

What are the allegations against Zaldy Co?

Zaldy Co is accused of facilitating kickbacks in a flood control corruption scandal and claims he is being used as a scapegoat by the Marcos administration.

How might these allegations affect the Philippines?

The allegations could lead to increased scrutiny of government practices and impact international relations, especially regarding foreign investment.

What does "Kadiliman versus Kasamaan" refer to?

This phrase reflects the ongoing political struggle in the Philippines, symbolising the battle between perceived forces of darkness (Kadiliman) and evil (Kasamaan) within the political landscape.