DOJ official Jojo Cadiz accused by Zaldy Co resigns

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December 5, 2025 | 3:57pm

MANILA, Philippines — Justice Undersecretary Jojo Cadiz, whom resigned lawmaker Zaldy Co accused of serving as President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s “bagman,” has resigned, the Palace confirmed Friday, December 5.

A Rappler report earlier alleged that Cadiz had ties to a newly formed construction company that has secured about P200 million worth of projects despite being created only in 2023.

At a press briefing, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said the allegations have yet to be taken up by the president but stressed that the administration welcomes any investigation.

Asked whether Cadiz still enjoyed the president’s trust, Castro said he had already tendered his resignation “as far as she knew.”

The Palace did not address Co’s claim that Cadiz once served as an aide to Marcos.

Castro said recent resignations of officials facing corruption allegations should reassure the public, noting that those who may be implicated are voluntarily stepping aside.

“Kung sila ay nai-involve at alam nila na maaari silang masangkot kahit wala silang kasalanan, paggalang ito sa Pangulo mismo nila para sila muna ay umalis, sila ay mag-resign; paggalang ito sa taumbayan,” she said. (If they are involved and they know that they may be implicated even if they have no wrongdoing, it is a sign of respect to the president that they voluntarily leave, that they resign, this is a sign of respect to the people.) 

Co’s broader allegations. Co has also accused former Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin and former Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman of corruption. Both left their posts shortly after his statements.

The former lawmaker has alleged that Marcos orchestrated a P100 billion corruption scheme, tagging Bersamin, Pangandaman and Cadiz as part of the purported operation.