DOJ chief flies to Prague to pursue return of Zaldy Co

National

JUSTICE Sec. Fredderick Vida is heading to the Czech Republic to facilitate the possible repatriation of fugitive former lawmaker Zaldy Co, as the government moves to bring him back to the Philippines.

In a Philstar report, Vida will be accompanied by Chief State Counsel Dennis Chan, though coordination with Czech authorities is still underway.

“The details will come along,” he said, noting that arrangements for meetings have yet to be finalized.

The Department of Justice is weighing several legal options to secure Co’s return, including deportation, extradition, or invoking the United Nations Convention Against Corruption, which both the Philippines and the Czech Republic have signed.

Amid the legal efforts, the government is also addressing energy concerns linked to Co’s business interests.

Energy Sec. Sharon Garin said authorities are working to ensure continuous fuel supply for Sunwest Water and Electric Co. (Suweco), which operates in Catanduanes where diesel remains the main source of electricity.

Garin said rising global oil prices, driven by tensions in the Middle East, are putting pressure on diesel-dependent operations. While Suweco has secured fuel supply good for about one week, the government has stepped in to strengthen logistics and coordination to prevent disruptions.

She added that subsidy support under the Universal Charge for Missionary Electrification is being rolled out to sustain power generation in off-grid areas. Funds are now ready for release, with additional disbursements being finalized, based on updates from the National Power Corp.

Authorities said efforts are ongoing on both fronts, as the government works to address legal proceedings involving Co while ensuring stable energy supply in affected areas. (Samantha Faye Alcoma, CTU-TC BAEL-ELSD Intern)