Fredderick A. Vida serves as Secretary of Justice after taking his oath of office in November 2025 – Photo credit: caap.gov.ph
MANILA — The Department of Justice (DOJ) confirmed Thursday that a senior delegation is departing for the Czech Republic to explore legal options, including deportation or extradition, to facilitate the return of former Ako Bicol party-list Rep. Elizaldy “Zaldy” Co to the Philippines.
Justice Secretary Fredderick A. Vida is leading the mission to Prague, where Philippine officials are expected to meet with Czech counterparts to determine how Co can be returned to face pending criminal charges before the Sandiganbayan.
Vida will be accompanied by Chief State Counsel Dennis Chan, with discussions focused on legal pathways available under Czech and international law. Officials did not provide a definitive timetable, citing the need to comply with host-country legal procedures.
No extradition treaty, multiple legal pathways
The Philippines does not have an extradition treaty with the Czech Republic, prompting authorities to consider alternative approaches. These include deportation proceedings under Czech immigration law and cooperation frameworks under the United Nations Convention against Corruption.
Justice officials said coordination may also involve international policing channels through the Interpol, subject to the legal requirements of the detaining state.
Legal observers note that proceedings in Europe can take time, particularly if the individual contests removal or seeks asylum protections.
Charges pending before anti-graft court
The case against Co stems from alleged irregularities involving public infrastructure projects, including flood control works. Philippine authorities have confirmed that arrest warrants were issued in 2024 by the Sandiganbayan in connection with graft and malversation charges.
The Office of the Ombudsman has stated that Co’s return is necessary for arraignment and trial proceedings to move forward. As of publication, no court has rendered a final judgment on the allegations.
Two-track process: repatriation and prosecution
The government’s handling of the case reflects the distinct mandates of the DOJ and the Office of the Ombudsman.
The DOJ, under Secretary Vida, is responsible for securing Co’s return through diplomatic and legal channels abroad, including coordination with foreign governments and international legal frameworks.
The Office of the Ombudsman, led by Jesus Crispin Remulla since October 2025, is tasked with prosecuting graft-related cases. The office has the authority to subpoena respondents, file or amend charges, and present evidence before the Sandiganbayan.
Co denies allegations
Co has denied the accusations in earlier public statements made while outside the country. His legal representatives have not issued a new statement following confirmation of his detention abroad.
Process subject to foreign jurisdiction
Philippine officials underscored that any transfer of custody will depend on Czech domestic law and due process. The government has expressed readiness to comply with all legal requirements to secure Co’s return, but cautioned that timelines remain uncertain.
