Overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) have begun providing authorities with “substantial information” on the possible whereabouts of resigned Ako Bicol party-list Rep. Zaldy Co, Assistant Ombudsman Mico Clavano confirmed on Tuesday.
According to Clavano, several OFWs reached out earlier in the day with tips that appear to support reports that Co is currently in Portugal.
The information being relayed from Filipinos abroad aligns with Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla’s recent statement identifying Portugal as Co’s last known location. Clavano said the consistency of the tips adds credibility to ongoing efforts to locate the former lawmaker.
He encouraged the public to report any additional information directly to the Office of the Ombudsman or law enforcement agencies to help move the search forward.
As authorities verify the new leads, Malacañang said the government may consider offering a reward for any information that can help in Co’s arrest. Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said the idea has not been formally discussed but may now be evaluated after being raised in a briefing.
She also acknowledged reports that Co is believed to be staying in Portugal under a “golden visa,” a residency program for foreign investors.
In the same briefing, Castro appealed for public assistance in locating another fugitive, Cassandra Li Ong, who is facing a human trafficking charge before a Pasig court. Castro urged anyone who may encounter Ong to immediately inform authorities.
The Department of the Interior and Local Government reported that Ong remains in the country, although the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission previously said she had last been traced to Japan despite having no recorded departure.
The Department of Justice has already offered a ₱1-million reward for information leading to Ong’s capture.
