DOJ Affirms Zaldy Co's Detention in Czech Republic Amid Evidence Scrutiny
In response to mounting criticism over the absence of official documents and photographs verifying the incarceration of fugitive and former Ako-Bicol party-list representative Zaldy Co, the Department of Justice (DOJ) has publicly declared its unwavering belief that he is indeed under custody in the Czech Republic. During a recent press conference, Justice Secretary Fredderick Vida emphasized that all available indicators strongly point to Co's current detention status.
Data Privacy Regulations Hinder Confirmation
Secretary Vida elaborated on the challenges posed by European Union data privacy laws, which restrict the release of specific documentation. "They have a rule in the European Union regarding data privacy, so there are no documents or pictures that can confirm this. Such regulations exist. They would neither confirm nor deny on all these matters. We respect this process and these rules," Vida stated. He further explained that the Czech government has already notified other nations following Co's apprehension.
"It's a simple notice: do you know this person, might he have liabilities in your country, please inform us," Vida added, quoting the communication. "Why would an agency or a government agency ask if anyone knows this person if they don't have him?" he questioned rhetorically, reinforcing the DOJ's stance.
Plans for High-Level Coordination and Extradition
The Philippine government is anticipated to dispatch a high-level coordination team led by the DOJ and the Department of Foreign Affairs to the Czech Republic to facilitate Co's repatriation. This move aims to bring him back to the Philippines to face legal proceedings. Co is at the center of a government investigation into anomalies related to flood control projects, with a standing warrant of arrest issued by the Sandiganbayan for irregularities in a P289 million flood control project in Naujan, Oriental Mindoro.
Reports indicate that Co was captured in Prague on April 16, 2026, after allegedly entering the country without proper documentation. The DOJ's announcement seeks to address public skepticism while navigating international legal frameworks and privacy protocols.
