MANILA—Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Jonvic Remulla expressed confidence that former Congressman Zaldy Co will eventually be arrested, saying the government will pursue all available legal avenues despite challenges posed by his location in Portugal.

In a media interview, Remulla confirmed that Co holds a Portuguese passport. “As of now, wala tayong extradition treaty with Portugal kaya tingin namin doon siya nagtatago,” he said.

When asked about the implications of Co’s dual citizenship, Remulla explained that prosecution depends on Portuguese law. “Depende sa batas nila ‘yan. Ang pagkaalam ko, if the crime was committed before the acquisition of the passport, ay hindi siya chargeable. Kung after the acquisition, pwede siyang i-repatriate.”

He remained resolute that Co will face accountability. “Ako, hindi ako nawawalan ng pag-asa. Kasi maliit ang mundo, mas lalong lumiliit ang mundo niya. Pwede siyang magkamali, pwede tayong swertehin. Pwedeng through negotiations mapagbigyan tayo ng Portuguese government.”

Remulla also confirmed that the National Bureau of Investigation has seized several properties linked to Co, including assets in Forbes Park and Bicol. “Lahat ng properties pinasok namin. Yung sa Forbes wala sa pangalan niya, pero beneficial owner siya,” he said, noting that the properties are now under a freeze order.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. previously urged Co to return to the Philippines, assuring that the investigation into ghost flood control projects will continue and will not end in disappointment. Co is at the center of the largest corruption scandal involving alleged ghost flood control projects under the Department of Public Works and Highways and purported budget insertions in the House of Representatives.

Remulla further said the DILG is ready to enforce an arrest warrant if the International Criminal Court issues one for Senator Bato Dela Rosa, who faces charges of crimes against humanity related to extrajudicial killings during the previous administration’s drug war. “Kung lumabas ang warrant of arrest as validated by the Transnational Crime or DOJ or Interpol, aarestuhin namin siya,” he said.

The DILG reaffirmed its commitment to President Marcos’ directive to uphold accountability, ensure justice, and strengthen law enforcement cooperation across jurisdictions.