Fugitive Former Lawmaker Zaldy Co Detained in Prague for Illegal Entry
Malacañang has officially confirmed the arrest of fugitive former lawmaker Zaldy Co in Prague, Czech Republic, for alleged illegal entry. The announcement was made on Thursday by the Presidential Communications Office (PCO).
Official Confirmation and Custody Details
PCO Acting Secretary Dave Gomez stated that Co is currently in custody in the Czech Republic. "We confirm that Zaldy Co was detained in Prague for crossing into the Czech Republic without proper documentation. He is presently in Czech custody," Gomez said in an official statement.
Gomez emphasized that Philippine authorities are actively coordinating with their Czech counterparts to arrange for Co's return to the Philippines. This international cooperation is crucial to ensure all legal protocols are followed during the extradition process.
President Marcos Announces Arrest on Social Media
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. also publicly announced Co's arrest through a social media post. "We are in close coordination with the Czech government to ensure that all legal processes are followed and to arrange for his return to the Philippines at the soonest possible time," the President stated.
President Marcos further committed to keeping the public informed as developments unfold regarding this high-profile case. The arrest marks a significant development in a long-running legal saga involving the former legislator.
Background of the Fugitive Case
Zaldy Co, who previously served as chair of the House Committee on Appropriations overseeing the national budget, has been linked to alleged irregularities involving flood control projects. His legal troubles escalated when he was declared a fugitive from justice after failing to submit to the jurisdiction of the Sandiganbayan.
The Sandiganbayan issued arrest warrants against Co and several others in November 2025 over alleged irregularities in a multi-million road dike project in Naujan, Oriental Mindoro. The specific allegations involve:
- Financial irregularities in infrastructure projects
- Failure to comply with court jurisdiction
- Evasion of legal proceedings
The arrest in Prague represents a breakthrough in efforts to bring Co back to the Philippines to face these charges. The coordination between Philippine and Czech authorities demonstrates international cooperation in addressing cross-border legal matters involving former public officials.
