Former Ako Bikol Partylist Rep. Zaldy Co tagged First Lady Liza Marcos in rice smuggling as he reveal the alleged corruption in the importation of agricultural product in the country.

In his latest video on Wednesday, Co said the House investigation on the high price of rice was stopped after Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel presented a confidential report that linked the First Lady in rice smuggling.

"It was stopped by Secretary Laurel Tiu after he presented a confidential report where it stated that the rice importers are under the control of First Lady Liza Marcos," he said.

Co said Ilocos Norte Rep. Sandro Marcos also called Romualdez to stopped the rice investigation as ordered by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

"I was with former Speaker Martin Romualdez when Congressman Sandro Marcos called, Secretary Laurel Tiu also arrived at Manila Polo townhouse where he was scolded by the Speaker because he released the confidential report which associated the First Lady in the issue of rice smuggling," he said.

"Even after the import tax was cut from 35 percent to 15 percent the price of rice in the market remain high and it is because of so many SOP (standard operating procedures) and remittance that is being passed in every transactions," he added.

Co alleged that the First Lady also tried to stop the House investigation on the surging price of onions in 2022, after her brother, Martin Araneta was accused as one of those who were controlling the importation of onions.

Before his video ended, Co claimed that many fish importers are also complaining as the importation of fish is being controlled by a few companies which he did not name.

It can be recalled that in his previous video messages, Co started his revelation on the alleged corruption in the national budget where he linked President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., Presidential son Congressman Sandro Marcos, former Speaker Martin Romualdez other cabinet members and government officials in the "insertions" related to the anomalous flood control projects of government.

As he ended his message, Co said that he still has a lot to reveal in the coming days. Robina Asido/DMS