DPWH blocks bid to deregister Zaldy Co's helicopters

Authorities have blocked an attempt by companies linked to former Ako Bicol party-list Representative Elizaldy “Zaldy” Co to deregister three helicopters, preventing their sale to foreign buyers.

Public Works Secretary Vince Dizon confirmed that the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) has a standing order to prevent the deregistration of Co's air assets.

Deregistering an aircraft is a prerequisite for its sale, as it cannot be sold if still registered in the Philippines.

This action follows a request by the DPWH to freeze $74.65 million (about P4.3 billion) worth of aircraft linked to Co and his brother.

Among the assets are those of Misibis Aviation, controlled by Co's son, including a $36-million Gulfstream 350 executive jet and several helicopters valued at millions of dollars.