PRAGUE — Justice Secretary Frederick Vida on Friday said there is no assurance that former Ako Bicol party-list representative Zaldy Co is still within the jurisdiction of the Czech Republic, as Philippine authorities continue efforts to verify his status and facilitate his return to the Philippines.
Speaking to reporters in Prague, Vida acknowledged uncertainty over Co’s whereabouts, saying it is “possible” that the former lawmaker may no longer be in the country. He emphasized that the Philippine government cannot impose conditions on Czech authorities regarding Co’s custody.
“There’s no such guarantee. We need to respect their laws,” Vida said when asked whether the Czech government could ensure Co would remain under its jurisdiction.
Co, who is facing graft and malversation charges linked to alleged irregularities in flood control projects, was earlier reported to have been placed under immigration detention by Czech authorities after being flagged as an undocumented foreign national.
A high-level Philippine delegation led by Vida is currently in Prague to coordinate with Czech officials, including the Ministry of Justice, to verify information about Co’s detention and explore legal avenues for his possible return to the Philippines.
However, Vida clarified that discussions are still being arranged, with the Philippine embassy working to finalize meetings with relevant Czech counterparts.
The justice chief also underscored the need to respect both Czech and European Union legal processes, noting that any action involving Co must comply with the host country’s judicial system.
“We respect the process… We don’t want to preempt any of the Czech Republic’s decision or the EU’s decision,” Vida said.
He declined to give a definite timeline for Co’s possible return, cautioning against earlier suggestions that the former lawmaker could be repatriated within weeks. According to Vida, setting expectations may be seen as imposing pressure on foreign authorities.
Meanwhile, Philippine officials are working to secure additional documents to support a request for an Interpol red notice against Co, which could help initiate formal legal proceedings such as extradition. Vida confirmed that, as of now, no such red notice has been issued.
The Department of Justice earlier clarified that Co was not technically under arrest but had his liberty restrained due to possible immigration violations, similar to cases where foreign nationals are denied entry at ports of entry.
Authorities continue to coordinate with Czech counterparts as they seek to determine Co’s exact status and the legal steps necessary to bring him back to face charges in the Philippines.
