FORMER Ako Bicol Rep. Elizaldy “Zaldy” Co is believed to be in Portugal amid the ongoing arrest of individuals charged over the controversial flood control project in Oriental Mindoro, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) said Monday.
DILG Secretary Jonvic Remulla said Co is suspected to hold a Portuguese passport “acquired so many years ago.”
“Zaldy Co is believed to be in Europe, suspected to be in Portugal. He is suspected to have a Portuguese passport, acquired so many years ago,” Remulla told reporters during a Palace briefing.
He added that Co’s passport may have been cancelled.
“Ang pagkakaalam ko na-cancel na ‘yung passport niya,” he added.
He also noted that authorities believe Co may hold two passports, not just a visa, which could complicate matters.
“We believe he is a holder of two passports, not only a visa but also a passport so doon tayo may complication nang kaunti,” the DILG chief said.
Last week, the department confirmed it would investigate reports that Co holds a Portuguese passport, which may provide him protection under Portuguese law if it was acquired prior to the filing of charges. The Philippines has no extradition treaty with Portugal, complicating any legal efforts to bring him back.
