PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has directed concerned government agencies to begin the process of forging an extradition treaty with Portugal to ensure the arrest and return of fugitive former Ako Bicol party-list representative Zaldy Co.
Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla disclosed the directive during a Malacañang press briefing in Manila on Tuesday, saying the President wants authorities to act swiftly even in the absence of an existing extradition agreement between the Philippines and Portugal.
The move is aimed at preparing the legal groundwork for Co’s return should his presence in Portugal be confirmed.
Co has been linked to the multibillion-peso flood control controversy as well as alleged questionable budget insertions, prompting authorities to intensify efforts to bring him back to face possible charges.
Remulla said the government has already coordinated with the International Criminal Police Organization (Interpol) to facilitate Co’s repatriation. Through Interpol channels, Philippine authorities have submitted a request seeking his return if he is indeed staying in Portugal.
The interior secretary also revealed that investigators suspect Co may be holding a Portuguese passport, a factor that could complicate efforts but has been taken into account in ongoing coordination with foreign counterparts.
The administration’s latest move underscores its intent to pursue accountability and strengthen international cooperation in tracking down fugitives, regardless of jurisdictional challenges. (PNA)
