Many are confused about whether President BBM's statement that Zaldy Co has been caught in the Czech Republic is true, as his words contradict those of his Justice Secretary. On April 17, 2026, BBM said that Co was in the custody of Czech authorities, implying he had been arrested there. BBM added that the Philippine government was coordinating to bring Co back to face corruption charges.
Recently, Justice Secretary Fredderick Vida stated that Co is no longer in Czech custody. Despite this, PCO USec Claire Castro insisted that BBM's initial statement was correct, even though it contradicts Secretary Vida's account. Castro did not say that Vida was wrong, which only adds to the confusion.
What is the truth?
If Co is no longer in the Czech Republic, it means he is free to travel anywhere without restriction. If he is not in Czech custody, then BBM's claim that he was caught is false. But a big question remains: why would Czech authorities arrest him? Was there a warrant of arrest in the Czech Republic? Does the Philippines have an extradition treaty with the Czech Republic?
Castro's explanation
USec Castro argued that BBM said "Zaldy Co has been caught," and that the word "caught" is a general term that does not necessarily mean arrested. She added that "caught" could mean stopped or prevented from leaving, but insisted that BBM was correct and that he did not use the word "arrested." Castro's twisting of words seems designed to avoid admitting that BBM made a mistake.
Despite her attempts to spin the story, Castro did not explain how Co could be in custody yet no longer in the Czech Republic. Was he released? Did he post bail? If released, why was he arrested in the first place? Did he commit a crime there? If the Philippine government was coordinating his return, what happened to that coordination? Shouldn't the Czech Republic inform the Philippines about his release?
Public confusion remains
Despite USec Claire Castro's efforts to confuse the public, it is clear that Co cannot return to the Philippines to face charges because even they admit he is no longer in Czech custody. Co remains free to travel anywhere, even with an expired passport. The Philippines is helpless to pursue him as long as he is free.
This is a classic case where a wealthy criminal is hard to catch, while a poor thief is quickly imprisoned. Those who steal billions of pesos easily escape and play with the law, while those who steal food due to hunger are imprisoned in a flash. Is this right? Should this continue?
