MANILA, Philippines — The possible return of fugitive former lawmaker Elizaldy “Zaldy” Co to the Philippines could still take weeks or even stretch into months, depending on how his case unfolds in the Czech Republic, according to international law experts.
Co’s repatriation may be expedited through deportation, but legal experts said this would only happen quickly if he does not contest the order or seek asylum.
Lawyer Ralph Sarmiento, former dean of the University of St. La Salle College of Law, said deportation could take less than two weeks if no appeal is filed, stressing that coordination between the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) and Czech authorities is crucial.
“The fastest route is deportation, but that depends on agreement between both governments,” Sarmiento said in a radio interview.
However, since the Philippines and Czech Republic do not have an extradition treaty, the process relies heavily on diplomatic arrangements.
Under Czech law, authorities must decide on administrative deportation within seven days, with appeals allowed within five days. Removal may be enforced within 7 to 60 days, though urgent cases can be shortened if public security is involved.
Still, legal experts warned that Co’s situation could become more complex if he files for asylum, potentially arguing political persecution. If granted, asylum proceedings could significantly delay deportation and even suspend removal procedures.
San Sebastian College law dean Rodel Taton said asylum claims can trigger lengthy reviews and may even result in temporary release from detention.
“The process pauses until asylum proceedings are resolved,” Taton said, adding that the Philippine government can challenge such claims by pointing to existing graft and malversation charges.
Sarmiento also noted that Co’s alleged foreign residency status, if confirmed, could further complicate diplomatic coordination.
Co, implicated in a major corruption scandal involving public works projects, faces graft charges before the Sandiganbayan. His passport was canceled by the Department of Foreign Affairs in December 2025.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. earlier confirmed Co’s detention in Prague following travel document issues and said the government is working with Czech authorities for his possible return.
Officials have not provided a new update since.
ia/xf
