Manila: A Philippine delegation is set to travel to the Czech Republic to discuss the legal procedures required for the extradition of former Ako Bicol party-list representative Zaldy Co, the Department of Justice (DOJ) announced on Tuesday. The DOJ is coordinating efforts to ensure Co's return to the Philippines to face charges.

According to Philippines News Agency, DOJ Secretary Fredderick Vida expressed confidence in the legal process being pursued for Co's extradition. Vida stated that the DOJ has been working on the case since November 2025, following the issuance of an arrest warrant by the anti-graft court Sandiganbayan against Co, who previously chaired the House of Representatives Committee on Appropriations.

Vida dismissed rumors suggesting that Co was not in Czech custody, confirming that Co is indeed detained by Czech authorities. Co was apprehended in Prague last week after entering the country without the necessary documentation.

He is implicated in several cases related to fraudulent ghost flood control projects and budget insertions. Currently, three arrest warrants have been issued against him, and it will be the Sandiganbayan's responsibility to determine his place of detention upon his return to the Philippines.

Vida emphasized that Co will receive no special treatment and that his detention location will ultimately be decided by the court. The DOJ awaits the court's discretion on where Co will be held, with most accused in similar cases being detained in Quezon City.