The Philippine government has not set a timetable for the possible return of former lawmaker Zaldy Co from the Czech Republic, as efforts move forward through legal and diplomatic channels.
A high-level delegation led by Justice Secretary Fredderick Vida and Chief State Counsel Dennis Chan Mahalagaan is set to coordinate with Czech authorities to facilitate Co’s return and stress the importance of holding him accountable in the Philippines.
Co is facing charges of malversation and violations of anti-graft laws in connection with the alleged flood control scandal.
The Department of Justice said the process will require careful adherence to legal and diplomatic procedures, particularly as there is no extradition treaty between the Philippines and the Czech Republic.
“We approach this engagement with full respect for Czech legal procedures and with the understanding that the process may require time to complete properly. Walang timetable. Antayin na lang po natin,” said DOJ spokesperson Polo Martinez.
In the absence of an extradition agreement, Philippine authorities are exploring alternative legal avenues, including the possibility of deportation, which officials say may be a faster and more feasible option.
Co is currently under the custody of Czech authorities.
Meanwhile, the Philippine government is preparing documents to show that Co has pending cases before the Sandiganbayan, which may also be used to counter any potential application for political asylum.
Authorities emphasized that the move to bring Co back is aimed at prosecution, not persecution.
