The Marcos administration has pushed back on concerns about the safety of former Ako Bicol party-list representative Zaldy Co upon his expected return to the Philippines, saying any claim of death threats must first be substantiated.
Speaking at a Palace briefing Tuesday, presidential press officer Claire Castro questioned the basis of the safety fears being raised publicly, asking where the reported threats were coming from and whether any evidence had already been presented.
“Dapat tingnan muna po natin, saan nanggagaling iyong sinasabing death threats? Mayroon na po bang naipakita?” she said.
The Palace’s response came after Sen. JV Ejercito flagged Co’s security as one of the more pressing complications surrounding efforts to bring him home, characterizing it as a significant challenge for authorities.
Castro did not dismiss the government’s obligation to protect returning Filipinos, affirming that all citizens are entitled to safety when coming back to the country. “Lahat naman po ng Pilipino ay dapat safe na bumalik sa Pilipinas,” she said.
Co is currently in Czech custody after being flagged for illegal entry. The Department of Justice and the Department of Foreign Affairs are coordinating with Czech authorities on his repatriation, and a high-level team is being lined up for deployment. Castro offered limited specifics on the timeline or mechanics of the process.
“Kasi mayroon pong ibang country na involved. So, maingat po ang gobyerno sa pagbibigay ng anumang anunsiyo,” Castro said.
Co departed the Philippines in July 2025, citing medical treatment in the United States. His travel authority was subsequently revoked in September following allegations of involvement in budget insertions and irregular flood control projects. He later gave up his seat as Ako Bicol representative.
President Marcos has previously indicated that Co’s return would be subject to due process and international procedures.
