Justice Secretary Frederick Vida said it is “possible” that former Ako Bicol party-list Rep. Zaldy Co is no longer within the jurisdiction of the Czech Republic, as Philippine authorities seek to verify reports of his detention.
“There’s no such guarantee. We need to respect their laws,” Vida told reporters when asked whether Czech authorities could ensure Co remains under their jurisdiction.
Co, who faces corruption and malversation charges linked to alleged irregularities in flood control projects, was earlier reported to have been placed under immigration detention by Czech authorities.
Vida said meetings with officials from the Czech Ministry of Justice are being arranged to confirm Co’s status and explore possible ways to bring him back to the Philippines. The Philippine embassy in Prague is assisting in coordinating the discussions.
He stressed that the Philippines will respect the legal processes of the Czech Republic and the European Union.
“We respect the process… We don’t want to preempt any of the Czech Republic’s decision or the EU’s decision or any authority. This is in recognition of them having their own system,” he said.
Vida also declined to affirm an earlier statement by Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla that Co could be repatriated within three weeks, saying imposing a timeline may be seen as pressuring Czech authorities.
One of the delegation’s key objectives, he added, is to determine the legal pathway for Co’s return to the Philippines.
The justice chief confirmed that no Interpol red notice has been issued against Co, although additional documents are being prepared to support an application.
Earlier, DOJ spokesperson Polo Martinez clarified that Co was not formally arrested but had his liberty restricted due to a possible immigration violation, similar to being denied entry at an airport.
Meanwhile, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. did not explicitly describe Co’s situation as an “arrest” when he announced the development on April 16.
Vida declined to speculate on whether the President’s earlier statement was premature, saying verification is still ongoing.
“We move forward based on empirical data… that’s why it is important to know the facts,” he said.
Vida is expected to return to the Philippines next week.
