The Department of Justice has firmly confirmed that former Ako Bicol Party-list Representative Zaldy Co is currently in the custody of the Czech Republic, dispelling any doubts about his arrest status. During a press briefing today, Justice Secretary Fredderick A. Vida directly refuted claims questioning the validity of the former lawmaker's detention, asserting the information is accurate and verified by the department.
Government Confirms Custody and Initiates Extradition
This confirmation follows President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr.'s earlier announcement that Czech authorities hold custody of the accused Zaldy Co. Secretary Vida further revealed that the Philippine government has already commenced the legal process to extradite the former congressman back to the Philippines, where he faces multiple serious charges.
Legal Proceedings and Confidence in the Process
The Justice Secretary expressed the agency's confidence in the government's current direction regarding Co's case. Officials are actively studying all available legal options to achieve the primary objective of returning the former lawmaker to Philippine jurisdiction. This step is deemed crucial to bring him before the Sandiganbayan court.
Zaldy Co is charged with malversation of public funds through falsification, graft, and other offenses related to anomalous flood control projects. The Department of Justice remains optimistic about successfully regaining custody but acknowledges that a specific timeline for his return is not yet certain, as the extradition process involves complex international legal procedures.
