President Bongbong Marcos met with French Ambassador Marie Fontanel and Czech Republic Chargé d’Affaires Eva Tenzin in Malacañang on April 29, pressing both governments for action and answers over fugitive former lawmaker Zaldy Co, who remains out of Philippine custody.
Co was earlier detained in Prague in mid-April after Philippine officials said he entered the Czech Republic without proper documentation. Authorities moved to secure his return following the development, but Co is no longer in Czech custody and remains at large in Europe, prompting renewed urgency from the Philippine government.
“The President expressed disappointment over the Zaldy Co situation,” the Palace said, noting that despite coordination efforts, Co “remains at large in Europe.”
Marcos directly sought clarification from Czech authorities on the circumstances surrounding Co’s release, asking for details on “what transpired and why Zaldy Co was released from custody.”
The President reaffirmed confidence in the Philippines’ relations with France and the Czech Republic, citing shared commitments to the rule of law, while emphasizing the need for tighter police, legal, and judicial cooperation to locate and return Co.
Co is wanted in the Philippines over graft and corruption cases linked to flood control projects, with warrants issued by the Sandiganbayan. Philippine authorities have been coordinating with foreign counterparts to bring him back so he can face the charges filed against him.
Malacañang recently announced Co has sought asylum in France, adding another layer of complexity to efforts to secure his return as diplomatic and legal processes continue.
