Former Ako Bicol Representative Zaldy Co Seeks Dialogue with Ombudsman Through Priests
In a significant development in the ongoing investigation into government irregularities, Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla disclosed on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, that former Ako Bicol party-list representative Zaldy Co has initiated contact for a potential dialogue with Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla. The announcement was made during a press conference held at Camp Crame, where Secretary Remulla provided insights into the latest efforts by Co to engage with authorities.
Feelers Sent Through Priests for Dialogue
Secretary Remulla explained that Co, who is currently reported to be in Portugal, has sent feelers through several priests known to him. "Meron na siyang feelers through sa mga ibang pari na kilala niya... Not exactly (susuko), parang nagpa-pakonekta, gusto ng dialogue sa amin, pero of course that's not verified. Parang nagsabi pa lang, sinabi ng kaibigan ng kaibigan na pinaparating," Remulla stated. This translates to Co seeking a dialogue rather than surrendering, with the information being relayed indirectly through acquaintances.
He emphasized that while such overtures are taken seriously, any attempts at bribery would be firmly rejected. "Siyempre, we take them seriously, 'yung gusto makipag-dialogue kakausapin namin 'yan, pero kung bribe ay huwag na," Remulla added, underscoring the government's commitment to lawful proceedings.
Background on Zaldy Co's Legal Troubles
Zaldy Co is a central figure in a government probe into alleged irregularities in the implementation of flood control projects. Specifically, he faces a standing arrest warrant from the Sandiganbayan for graft and malversation related to an anomalous P289 million flood control project in Naujan, Oriental Mindoro. The Philippine government has been actively pursuing all possible avenues to secure his return to the country to face these charges.
Challenges in Extradition Due to Portuguese Passport
One of the major hurdles in bringing Co back is the absence of an extradition treaty between the Philippines and Portugal. Secretary Remulla revealed that Co obtained a Portuguese passport through the country's now-defunct golden visa program. "Dati kasi ang Portugal ay may golden visa program, so mag-invest ka lang ng so many hundred thousands of dollars, bibili ka ng bahay, after seven years bibigyan ka ng passport—una visa tapos passport. So ang batas ng Portugal is if the act is committed before the issuance of the passport, hindi siya ide-deport. But if nasa kanya na ang passport then he committed a crime, then he can stay," he explained.
This legal loophole means that since Co's alleged crimes occurred before he received his Portuguese passport, deportation is not feasible under Portuguese law. Remulla criticized this situation, remarking, "Criminal mind talaga, may escape route kaagad e," highlighting what he perceives as premeditated evasion tactics by Co.
Ongoing Efforts and Implications
The government continues to exhaust all diplomatic and legal means to facilitate Co's return, but the complexities of international law and the specific provisions of Portugal's golden visa program present significant obstacles. This case underscores broader issues in cross-border justice and the challenges faced by Philippine authorities in prosecuting individuals who leverage foreign residency programs.
As the situation unfolds, the potential dialogue between Co and the Ombudsman could mark a pivotal step in resolving the allegations, though it remains unverified and subject to further investigation. The public and legal observers are closely watching for developments, as this case has implications for accountability in government projects and the pursuit of justice against high-profile figures.
