MANILA, Philippines — Fugitive former Ako Bicol party-list Rep. Elizaldy “Zaldy” Co is now in French custody after reportedly leaving the Czech Republic, Malacañang confirmed on Tuesday.
According to Palace Press Officer Claire Castro, Co is currently applying for political asylum in France, citing “political persecution” as his basis.
The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has received what Castro described as “highly reliable information” regarding Co’s asylum petition.
“He has been requested to be transferred to and is now under the jurisdiction of French authorities,” Castro said in a press briefing.
She added that Philippine diplomatic posts across Europe have been directed to secure official confirmation of the development.
Authorities, however, have yet to establish the exact timeline of Co’s transfer from Czech custody to France. Castro also said there is no information indicating that Co has committed any offense in France so far.
ia/xf
