The government remains confident that Interpol will issue a Red Notice against former Ako Bicol Representative Zaldy Co before French authorities decide on his political asylum application.
Speaking during the Kapihan ng Samahang Plaridel forum, Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Jonvic Remulla on Friday said Philippine authorities have been continuously coordinating with Interpol regarding the request filed in September last year.
“We are working very hard on that,” Remulla said.
The former congressman is facing graft and malversation charges in connection with an allegedly anomalous flood control project. The Sandiganbayan earlier ordered his arrest.
Remulla expressed confidence that the government would eventually succeed in securing Co’s return to the Philippines.
“I am confident we will get the Red Notice and I am confident we will get Zaldy Co back here to the Philippines,” he said.
According to him, the political asylum process in France could take around six months, although he believes authorities may secure the Red Notice before the application is resolved.
Co was previously arrested by Czech authorities last month over alleged immigration violations. He was later released and subsequently applied for political asylum in France.
Remulla said the Philippine government has maintained regular communication with Interpol as the international police organization continues reviewing the request.
“Every week we have correspondence, asking for developments,” he said.
Despite Co’s attempts to remain abroad, Remulla said the former lawmaker’s options are becoming increasingly limited.
“His world is getting smaller, and eventually we will get him,” the Interior chief said.