Former Philippine lawmaker Elizaldy “Zaldy” Co has been arrested in Prague, Czech Republic, after months of being linked to a major corruption scandal involving alleged irregularities in flood control projects in the Philippines.
His detention marks a significant development in a case that has triggered widespread public anger and political scrutiny back home.
Authorities confirmed that Co, who previously served in the House of Representatives until his resignation in September 2025, was taken into custody after entering the Czech Republic without proper documentation.
Philippine officials say he had been on the run since mid 2025 after being implicated in alleged kickback schemes tied to infrastructure projects funded by the government.
The case centers on what investigators have described as large-scale irregularities in flood mitigation programs, including so-called ghost projects that were reportedly paid for but either poorly executed or never completed.
The controversy intensified after severe flooding incidents in recent years exposed weaknesses in infrastructure planning and spending.
Co has been identified by Philippine authorities as one of several individuals suspected of benefiting financially from these contracts.
Arrest in Prague and government response
Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr confirmed the arrest and said the government is working with Czech authorities for Co’s return.
Officials have already coordinated with international law enforcement agencies, including Interpol, after Co’s passport was reportedly cancelled while he was abroad.
Marcos emphasized that legal procedures would be followed in cooperation with Prague. He said,
“We are in close coordination with the Czech government to ensure that all legal processes are followed and to arrange for his return to the Philippines at the soonest possible time,”
Ferdinand Marcos Jr
Authorities in Manila have described Co as a key figure in the ongoing investigation.
The Department of the Interior and Local Government has also confirmed that preparations are underway for his eventual transfer back to the Philippines, although officials noted that the absence of an extradition treaty between the Philippines and the Czech Republic could complicate proceedings.
Co had left the Philippines in 2025 and was later declared a fugitive after failing to respond to court proceedings linked to corruption and malversation charges.
His disappearance prompted increased international monitoring efforts, which eventually led to his arrest in Europe.
Possible return and legal proceedings ahead
Officials in the Philippines have suggested that Co could be brought back within weeks, depending on diplomatic and legal coordination between the two countries.
Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla said the timeline remains flexible but indicated that preparations are actively ongoing. Remulla said.
“Maybe in as little as one week, but it could take as long as three weeks,”
Jonvic Remulla
He added that the Department of Foreign Affairs is leading discussions with Czech authorities to ensure proper procedures are followed.
Upon arrival in Manila, Co is expected to undergo medical evaluation and processing before facing court proceedings.
He will likely be held under custody while his cases move forward through the Sandiganbayan, the country’s anti-graft court, which will determine the next steps in his trial and whether he may be eligible for bail.
The allegations against Co are part of a broader investigation involving multiple former officials and contractors accused of benefiting from questionable government infrastructure deals.
While several individuals have denied wrongdoing, the case has become one of the most closely watched corruption investigations in recent Philippine political history.
Authorities say further updates will be released as coordination with Czech officials continues, while public attention remains focused on how quickly the former lawmaker can be repatriated and brought to trial.
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