Toronto: Malaca±ang on Friday (Canada time) stated that efforts to locate fugitive former Ako Bicol party-list Representative Zaldy Co persist despite his case being archived. The Palace emphasized that law enforcement agencies remain obligated to apprehend him.

According to Philippines News Agency, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro, during an interview at the Sutton Place Hotel, affirmed that authorities are committed to ensuring Co faces the allegations against him. Castro explained that the obligation to search for Co is not being neglected, highlighting his importance as a witness and the necessity for him to address the accusations.

Castro clarified that the archiving of Co's case does not equate to its dismissal or permanent closure. She noted that archiving is a standard procedure when a defendant is unavailable for trial. The case will be reactivated once Co is apprehended and under court jurisdiction.

She reminded the public that Co faces charges and has a pending warrant of arrest. Castro assured that the legal process remains in effect despite the temporary suspension of proceedings and that the government is committed to ensuring accountability, regardless of delays due to the accused's absence.

The Sandiganbayan Seventh Division ordered the archiving of Co's case, awaiting his availability. In November 2025, the Office of the Ombudsman filed a graft case against Co related to an allegedly anomalous PHP289-million flood control project in Oriental Mindoro. Co was the chairperson of the House Appropriations Committee during the finalization of the 2025 national budget.