Quezon city: Fugitive former lawmaker Zaldy Co will be detained at Camp Crame in Quezon City upon his return to the Philippines, Interior Secretary Juanito Victor "Jonvic" Remulla stated. Co is set to face arraignment before the Sandiganbayan following his detention.

According to Philippines News Agency, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) will assume custody of Co upon his arrival. Remulla emphasized that he would personally oversee Co's transfer to the Sandiganbayan, where Co faces charges filed by the Ombudsman. Prior to his arraignment, Co will undergo a comprehensive physical examination at Camp Crame.

Co's arrest in Prague occurred after he allegedly crossed into the Czech Republic without proper documentation. This followed an unsuccessful attempt to enter Germany. Co, previously spotted in Italy, has been evading authorities by frequently changing locations. His movements have been complicated by the cancellation of his Philippine passport, leaving him without valid travel documents.

Remulla indicated that Co's deportation timeline is contingent upon the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA). He suggested it might take as little as a week, or up to three weeks, depending on DFA's coordination. Philippine officials, including a police attach© and DFA representatives, have reportedly engaged in vigorous coordination with international counterparts to expedite Co's return.

Co is among 16 individuals charged with graft and malversation related to a PHP289-million flood control project in Naujan, Oriental Mindoro. The project, undertaken by Sunwest Corporation-a company owned by Co's family-has been scrutinized for alleged substandard execution. Additionally, the Anti-Money Laundering Council accused Co of receiving PHP802 million through check deposits from Sunwest accounts during his tenure as a lawmaker, a period when public officials are prohibited from maintaining business interests.

The Sandiganbayan has officially declared Co a fugitive from justice.