DFA Cites Diplomatic Source on Zaldy Co’s Reported Presence in Paris
ZALDY CO – The former Ako Bicol party-list representative is reportedly in Paris, according to Foreign Affairs Secretary Theresa Lazaro, who said the information came from a highly trusted diplomatic source.
She explained that while the identity of the source cannot be disclosed due to confidentiality, the Philippine Embassy in France is closely monitoring the situation. Reports earlier shared by Malacañang indicate that Co may be seeking asylum in France, possibly citing political persecution.
Co is currently facing corruption and misuse of public funds charges filed by the Office of the Ombudsman before the Sandiganbayan. These charges are linked to an alleged ₱289 million flood control project in Oriental Mindoro. Despite the seriousness of the case, Co has consistently maintained his innocence.
Lazaro noted that asylum cases in Europe are handled under strict privacy rules in accordance with European Union regulations, making it difficult to obtain detailed updates. However, she assured the public that the Philippine government continues to pursue all legal options to bring Co back to the country. In France, asylum applications are handled by OFPRA, where requests go through a formal process that includes registration, evaluation, and possible appeals.
The Department of Foreign Affairs already canceled Co’s diplomatic passport in December 2025 following a court order, while his regular Philippine passport expired in 2022. Both documents were reported to Interpol. Authorities believe Co used his expired passport when he was stopped in the Czech Republic while attempting to cross into Germany. Officials clarified that he is not a French citizen and does not hold a French passport.
Meanwhile, Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has expressed concern over reports that France requested Co’s release from Czech custody. According to Palace officials, the development was viewed as unsatisfactory, although details from French authorities remain limited.
Related Post: DOJ: No Confirmed Information Yet on Zaldy Co’s Location in Czech Republic