2 weeks ago
19
Upgrade to High-Speed Internet for only ₱1499/month!
Enjoy up to 100 Mbps fiber broadband, perfect for browsing, streaming, and gaming.
Visit Suniway.ph to learn
NBI Director Melvin Matibag at the DOJ on Feb. 23, 2026.
The STAR / Edd Gumban
MANILA, Philippines — A retired military general has allegedly recruited 103 security personnel for fugitive former lawmaker Zaldy Co, National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Director Melvin Matibag said.
In an interview with reporters on Wednesday, March 11, Matibag said that they have already identified the retired general who allegedly recruited Co’s personnel.
Among the 103 personnel are the 18 former Marines who alleged that several personalities worked with Co in delivering either suitcases or paper bags full of money.
According to Matibag, the bureau received information that the alleged security personnel were supposed to be employed for two years.
However, this was cut short because Zaldy Co has already disappeared. It can be recalled that Co left the Philippines in July 2025.
Matibag, however, did not name the retired general but mentioned that he belongs to the Class of 1975 of the Philippine Military Academy.
The NBI chief said the agency may also subpoena the retired general to shed light on the investigation.
The 18 Marines allegedly acted as security escorts for Co and as security escorts to officials of the International Criminal Court.
They also allegedly delivered cash to several individuals, according to the affidavit they submitted to the Office of the Ombudsman on February 26.
RELATED: ‘Handiwork’: Why De Lima, Trillanes think Duterte is behind the 18 ex-Marines complaint
