President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. is now actively exploring the possibility of establishing an extradition treaty with Portugal. This strategic move aims to facilitate the arrest and repatriation of former Ako Bicol party-list representative Zaldy Co, who is currently a fugitive from justice.
Key Figure in Graft Case Flees Abroad
The urgency for this diplomatic action stems from Co's involvement in a major corruption investigation. The Sandiganbayan has issued a warrant for his arrest, along with 15 officials from the Department of Public Works and Highways and members of the Sunwest Corporation board. The case centers on alleged irregularities in a P289-million road dike project in Oriental Mindoro.
Co left the Philippines in July, traveling to the United States under the pretext of seeking medical treatment. Since then, he has declined to return, citing threats to his safety and that of his family. Authorities now believe he is residing in Portugal and, significantly, holds a Portuguese passport, complicating efforts to bring him back to face trial.
Government Confirms Treaty Under Consideration
Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla confirmed the President's direction. In a recent interview with reporters, Remulla stated, "It is part of the conversation. He (Marcos) is already considering." He further clarified that while a direct order has not yet been issued, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) would be the agency to formally apply for such a treaty. "It's already a part of the conversation that they will consider doing it," Remulla added.
Legal Status and Next Steps
The Sandiganbayan has officially classified Zaldy Co as a "fugitive from justice." This designation underscores the court's view that he is evading the legal process. The potential extradition treaty with Portugal represents a critical legal pathway for the Philippine government. Without such an agreement, retrieving a citizen who possesses another country's passport from that territory is extremely difficult.
The Marcos administration's consideration of this treaty highlights its focus on pursuing individuals implicated in high-profile corruption cases, regardless of their location. The success of this initiative hinges on future diplomatic negotiations between the Philippine and Portuguese governments.
