President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has expressed frustration over what he described as “very unsatisfactory” updates on the case of fugitive former lawmaker Zaldy Co, after authorities in the Czech Republic and France declined to provide further details about his status.
According to Palace Press Officer Claire Castro, the President raised the issue in separate meetings with French Ambassador Marie Fontanel and Czech Chargé d’Affaires Eva Tenzin in Malacañang.
During the discussions, the Czech official confirmed that Co had been detained in the Czech Republic due to invalid travel documents. However, Castro said no additional information was provided regarding the duration of his detention or the circumstances surrounding his release.
Malacañang clarified that it is not withholding any information, but that both Czech and French authorities have limited what they can disclose due to their respective domestic, European, and international legal obligations.
Despite this, Castro said both governments have expressed willingness to cooperate with the Philippines, provided such cooperation does not violate their laws and policies.
The President also conveyed disappointment over Co’s release from Czech custody and his continued stay in Europe while facing legal charges in the Philippines.
Castro said the lack of detailed updates was particularly frustrating, noting that communication between Philippine authorities and Czech officials appeared to have been cut off while efforts to monitor Co’s situation were ongoing.
The Department of Foreign Affairs earlier said Co is currently under the jurisdiction of French authorities after reportedly seeking political asylum, citing alleged persecution.
French officials, however, said they are unable to disclose details about individual asylum cases due to confidentiality rules.
Co is facing corruption and malversation charges filed by the Office of the Ombudsman before the Sandiganbayan in connection with an alleged anomalous P289-million flood control project in Oriental Mindoro.
The Philippine government continues to pursue coordination with foreign counterparts as it seeks updates and possible legal avenues regarding Co’s case.