President Marcos Directs High-Level Team to Czech Republic for Fugitive Ex-Lawmaker's Return
In a significant development, President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. announced on Monday, April 20, 2026, that the Philippine government will deploy a high-level coordination team to the Czech Republic. The team's mission is to secure the return of fugitive former Ako-Bicol party-list representative Zaldy Co to the Philippines, where he faces serious legal charges.
Legal and Diplomatic Steps Underway
In a video message, President Marcos revealed that he has ordered the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) and the Department of Justice (DOJ) to spearhead coordination efforts with Czech authorities following Co's arrest. "He remains in the custody of the Czech Republic. We are carrying out all the necessary steps for his return to the Philippines," Marcos stated.
The President emphasized that such international processes adhere to strict legal procedures between nations, requiring adequate time for proper execution. "We will bring Zaldy Co home, and we will do so in accordance with the law. He will answer to the Filipino people," he added, underscoring the government's commitment to due process.
Potential Delays and Legal Complexities
Legal experts have cautioned that Co's return could face delays. In a radio interview, lawyer Ralph Sarmiento, former dean of the University of St. La Salle College of Law in Bacolod City, noted that the process might take several months if Co disputes his deportation or seeks asylum in the Czech Republic. However, Sarmiento indicated that a straightforward deportation could be completed in approximately two weeks, highlighting the importance of strong diplomatic relations between the two countries.
Adding to the complexity, lawyer Rodel Taton, dean of the Graduate School of Law at San Sebastian College-Recoletos, suggested that Co might argue to Czech authorities that he is being persecuted by the Marcos administration. This claim could relate to the anomalous flood control projects and alleged threats to his life, potentially complicating extradition efforts.
Background of the Case
Zaldy Co was arrested in Prague on April 16 after reportedly entering the Czech Republic without proper documentation. He has a standing arrest warrant issued by the Sandiganbayan anti-graft court over a P289-million flood control project in Naujan, Oriental Mindoro, which is alleged to be anomalous.
The former lawmaker is central to investigations into flood control anomalies, with multiple witnesses identifying him as a recipient of billions of pesos in kickbacks from questionable projects. Construction firm Sunwest Corporation, co-founded by Co, is among the top 15 construction firms that secured 20 percent, or P100 billion, of flood control projects in the Philippines from 2022 to 2025.
Co left the Philippines months before the probe into flood control irregularities began and was later declared a fugitive from justice, with his passport canceled by the anti-graft court.
PNP Preparations for Custody
The Philippine National Police (PNP) is preparing to take custody of Co upon his return. PNP spokesperson Randulf Tuaño stated in a press conference that the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) will handle Co's custody upon arrival. He will undergo booking procedures before being presented to the Sandiganbayan for the return of the warrant and issuance of a commitment order detailing his detention location.
Tuaño assured the public that Co will receive no VIP treatment, but his security will be a top priority. "The PNP will be transparent from the day the former congressman arrives in the Philippines—from his arrival at Camp Crame, processing, medical and physical examination, up to the return of the warrant to the Sandiganbayan," he affirmed, promising full accountability in the process.
