Manila, April 1 -- The Sandiganbayan has affirmed the denial of the motion for reconsideration sought by fugitive Zaldy Co's nine co-accused in the malversation charges in connection with the ghost flood control project in Naujan, Oriental Mindoro.

In a 27-page resolution dated March 31 and written by Associate Justice Sarah Jane Fernandez, the anti-graft court denied the petition for lack of merit.

The motion for reconsideration was filed by former Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Region 4-B (Mimaropa) employees Gerald A. Pacanan, Gene Ryan A. Altea, Ruben D. Santos, Dominic G. Serrano, Juliet C. Calvo, Dennis P. Abagon, Montrexis T. Tamayo, Lerma D. Cayco, and Felizardo S. Casuno.

The nine individuals, among other thing...