Ellis Co, son of Ako Bicol Party-list Representative Elizaldy “Zaldy” Co, has publicly called on his father to return to the Philippines and face allegations of massive budget insertions and corruption tied to the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) flood control projects.
In a three-page Instagram statement posted Wednesday, September 24, Ellis addressed the mounting scandal surrounding his family and delivered a direct message to his father: “To my father, come home and answer to the people. Have your time in court. People need answers.”
Ellis acknowledged public outrage against his family but appealed to critics not to involve his fashion brand and the creative teams behind it.
“I understand the hate towards me and my family—but please spare the creatives who have done nothing but make an honest living off their hard work,” he wrote.
He also expressed solidarity with Filipinos protesting corruption: “I want to express my deepest sympathies to the people who have mobilized and stood up against corruption in the streets. I am with you, I am on your side.”
The young fashion entrepreneur further admitted to a moral struggle, saying he could no longer remain silent.
“I am not just speaking against a politician. I am speaking out against my father. And if this decision gets me disowned, I would rather face that consequence than watch millions of people suffer from his actions.”
Ellis revealed that his relationship with his father had grown distant since the congressman entered politics, stressing that his choice to build his clothing brand, .ARCHIVES, was his way of forging an independent path. Still, critics have accused him of benefiting from his father’s political ties, with some suggesting taxpayer money helped fund his ventures—an allegation Ellis denied.
The statement comes as pressure intensifies on Rep. Co, who allegedly funneled ₱24 billion to ₱35 billion worth of DPWH projects in Bulacan from 2022 to 2025, according to former district engineer Henry Alcantara’s Senate testimony. A freeze order has since been issued on Co’s assets, and House Speaker Faustino “Bojie” Dy III has revoked his travel clearance, giving him 10 days to return.
Co, currently reported to be in the United States for medical treatment, has dismissed the allegations as “false and baseless” but said he would answer them before the proper forum.
Ellis concluded his statement with a plea for justice: “Free those who were unfairly imprisoned, and seek justice for those who put their lives at stake.”
