President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Monday assured the public that former Ako Bicol Party-list Representative Zaldy Co will be returned to the Philippines to face charges following his arrest in Prague, Czech Republic.
In a video message, the President confirmed he has instructed the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) to coordinate with Czech authorities. A “high-level coordination team” will be dispatched to oversee the repatriation process.
Marcos emphasized that Co’s return must comply with international legal protocols.
“Ang ganitong mga proseso ay may sinusunod na mga legal na hakbang… kaya’t nangangailangan ng sapat na panahon upang maisagawa nang tama,” Marcos said.
Upon his return, Co is expected to face charges related to a multi-billion peso flood control racket. He previously served as chairperson of the House Committee on Appropriations.
“We will bring Zaldy Co home and we will do so in accordance with the law. He will answer to the Filipino people,” the President added.
The Sandiganbayan earlier declared Co a fugitive following his indictment over an allegedly anomalous dike project in Oriental Mindoro.