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Composite image shows former Ako Bicol representative Zaldy Co, now accused of a multi-billion peso corruption scheme, as seen in August 2023, and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro at a press briefing on April 21, 2026.
HREP; PCO
MANILA, Philippines — Malacañang dismissed claims that former Ako Bicol party-list representative Zaldy Co may face safety threats upon his return to the Philippines, saying such concerns must first be backed by evidence.
Palace press officer Claire Castro said the government would provide necessary protection in accordance with the law, but cautioned against raising unverified claims of death threats.
“Dapat tingnan muna po natin, saan nanggagaling iyong sinasabing death threats? Mayroon na po bang naipakita?” Castro said at a Palace briefing on Tuesday, April 21.
(We should first determine where the supposed death threats are coming from. Has any evidence been presented?)
Castro was responding to Sen. JV Ejercito’s statement that ensuring Co’s safety would be a major challenge as the government works to bring him back to the country.
She said the government remains committed to ensuring the safety of all Filipinos.
“Lahat naman po ng Pilipino ay dapat safe na bumalik sa Pilipinas,” Castro said. (All Filipinos should be able to return safely to the Philippines.)
Return through legal channels
Co is under the custody of Czech authorities after being flagged for illegal entry, according to earlier confirmation from Malacañang.
Officials are working to facilitate his return through diplomatic and legal channels, with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. earlier saying the process would have to follow due process and international procedures.
Castro said the Department of Justice and the Department of Foreign Affairs are leading coordination with Czech counterparts to process Co’s return. A high-level team is also expected to be deployed.
She declined to provide other details on the repatriation efforts.
“Kasi mayroon pong ibang country na involved. So, maingat po ang gobyerno sa pagbibigay ng anumang anunsiyo,” Castro said. (Another country is involved, so the government is being cautious in making any announcements.)
Co left the Philippines in July 2025, allegedly for medical treatment in the United States. His travel authority was revoked in September, and he was ordered to return after being implicated in budget insertions and anomalous flood control projects.
He later resigned as Ako Bicol party-list representative.
