DOJ: Zaldy Co ‘Not Technically Arrested’ but Liberty Restrained in Prague

The Department of Justice (DOJ) clarified on Friday, April 24, 2026, that former Ako Bicol Representative Zaldy Co has not been "formally arrested" in the Czech Republic, but is instead under a form of "deprivation of liberty".

Clarification of Status

While President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. earlier announced that Co was "caught" (nahuli na), DOJ Spokesperson Polo Martinez explained that the term "arrest" is technically inaccurate because Co has no outstanding warrants in the Czech Republic.

Martinez likened Co's situation to a traveler being denied entry at an airport. Co remains within the jurisdiction of Czech authorities due to immigration concerns and lack of proper documentation.

The Manhunt and Legal Background

Co has been a fugitive since 2025, following his resignation from the House of Representatives.

He faces multiple arrest warrants in the Philippines issued by the Sandiganbayan regarding alleged billion-peso anomalies in government-funded flood control projects. A Philippine delegation, including Justice Secretary Fredderick Vida, has traveled to Prague to negotiate legal pathways for Co’s return. Officials noted that the process is complicated as there is no extradition treaty between the two nations. 

Malacañang's Response

Palace Press Officer Claire Castro stated there is no contradiction between the President's update and the DOJ's technical clarification, maintaining that Co is in Czech custody specifically due to documentation issues.