Acting Justice Secretary Fredderick Vida announced on Wednesday that the Philippine government is prepared to utilize every available legal mechanism to ensure the return of former Ako Bicol Party-list Representative Zaldy Co, who was recently apprehended in the Czech Republic.
Secretary Vida is scheduled to depart for the Czech Republic on April 23 to engage with international officials regarding the high-profile case.
He will be joined by Chief State Counsel Dennis Arvin Chan, with potential support from the Philippine Center for Transnational Crime.
While the exact itinerary and the specific officials involved in the talks have yet to be fully detailed, Vida maintained that the mission’s objective remains clear.
“The details will come along,” he said.
The Department of Justice (DOJ) is currently exploring various avenues to secure Co’s physical presence in Philippine courts, emphasizing that the rule of law must be upheld regardless of geographic boundaries.
“Gusto natin mapabalik ang akusado, si former congressman Zaldy Co, sa Pilipinas,” Vida said.
International Cooperation and Legal Grounds
The government’s strategy includes pursuing deportation or extradition proceedings. Vida pointed out that both the Philippines and the Czech Republic are signatories to the United Nations Convention Against Corruption (UNCAC).
This international treaty serves as a critical framework for mutual legal assistance and the return of individuals facing corruption-related charges.
According to the Acting Secretary, the convention reinforces the expectation that the Czech Republic will not provide a “safe haven” for those evading the Philippine justice system.
Zaldy Co currently faces three standing arrest warrants issued by the Sandiganbayan. He was taken into custody in Prague after allegedly crossing the border without valid documentation.
His arrest was first confirmed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on April 16, signaling a significant development in the government’s pursuit of the former lawmaker.