DOJ Clarifies No Confirmation on Zaldy Co's Whereabouts in Portugal
The Department of Justice (DOJ) has issued a clarification regarding the location of former lawmaker Zaldy Co, stating that there is currently no confirmed information indicating he is hiding in Portugal. This announcement comes amid ongoing speculation and reports about Co's alleged residence abroad.
Verification Needed to Avoid Unconfirmed Allegations
According to DOJ Spokesperson Atty. Polo Martinez, while the government has received some information on this matter, it still requires thorough verification to prevent the spread of unconfirmed allegations. Martinez emphasized the importance of accuracy in such cases, noting that premature conclusions could lead to misinformation.
He added that the Philippines and Portugal do not have an existing extradition treaty, which complicates any potential legal actions if Co is indeed found to be in that country. This lack of a formal agreement means that cooperation between the two nations would need to be negotiated on a case-by-case basis.
Contradictory Reports from Government Officials
Earlier, Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla suggested that Co might be living in a gated community in Lisbon, Portugal. This statement has sparked further interest and investigation into Co's whereabouts. In response, the DOJ has indicated that the Department of Foreign Affairs could potentially engage with Portuguese authorities to help determine Co's exact location.
However, the DOJ has also clarified that reports of Co sending "feelers" to initiate dialogue with the government have not been verified. This adds another layer of uncertainty to the situation, as such claims remain unsubstantiated at this time.
Background on Zaldy Co and Related Issues
Zaldy Co is a former lawmaker who has been linked to various controversies, including allegations related to flood control anomalies. His current status and location have become a topic of public and media attention, especially given the legal implications of his potential extradition.
The DOJ's statement aims to provide clarity and ensure that all information disseminated is based on verified facts, rather than speculation. As the situation develops, further updates are expected from both the DOJ and other involved government agencies.
