Malacañang assured on Friday that the government will do everything to ensure the return of former Ako Bicol Party-list Representative Zaldy Co to the Philippines.
Executive Secretary's statement
In a press briefing during the distribution of government aid in Batangas City, Executive Secretary Ralph Recto said the Department of Justice (DOJ) is now handling the matter. He added that updates will come from the DOJ, noting that Justice Secretary Frederick Vida is in the proper position to provide detailed clarification on Co's situation.
"Secretary Vida will be back in a few days. He will provide some clarification," Recto said. "It is best that he answers the question. I have no update on that yet. But rest assured that our government will do everything that needs to be done to bring back Zaldy Co."
Current legal status
Co is now considered a fugitive while facing cases related to anomalies in flood control projects. The DOJ clarified that the term "arrest" may not be appropriate to describe the actions taken by Czech authorities against Co.
According to Malacañang, Co's case involves an immigration issue rather than a formal arrest, due to his failure to present proper travel documents.
Vida and his team have flown to Prague to coordinate with Czech authorities and ensure Co's return to the country.
