President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has requested further details on the status of former lawmaker Zaldy Co during meetings with French and Czech diplomatic officials, following reports that Co is no longer in Czech custody and is now seeking asylum in France.
According to the Presidential Communications Office (PCO), Marcos expressed disappointment that Co, despite Philippine efforts, remains at large in Europe.
“He requested for further information as to what transpired and why Zaldy Co was released from custody by the Czech authorities,” the PCO said after the President’s meeting with French Ambassador Marie Fontanel and Eva Tenzin, Chargé d’Affaires of the Czech Embassy.
The PCO added that Marcos remains confident in the Philippines’ bilateral ties with France and the Czech Republic, citing shared commitment to the rule of law.
“Nonetheless, the President is confident of the strength of our bilateral relations with France and the Czech Republic that is grounded on shared values, including respect for the rule of law,” it said.
Malacañang earlier confirmed that Co is now seeking asylum in France, a day after Czech authorities informed a Philippine delegation led by Justice Secretary Fredderick Vida that Co was no longer under their custody. Palace Press Officer Undersecretary Atty. Claire Castro said Co is now under French jurisdiction.
Marcos had previously announced that Co was apprehended and in Czech custody after encountering documentation issues. Philippine authorities had since been coordinating efforts to have him returned to the country.
Arrest warrants have been issued against Co and 17 others, including officials of the Department of Public Works and Highways and directors of Sunwest Corp., over alleged anomalous flood control projects.
The Ombudsman has filed graft and malversation charges before the Sandiganbayan in connection with an alleged ₱289-million flood control project in Oriental Mindoro.
Co has repeatedly denied the corruption allegations against him.
