By Weng Ocfemia

MANILA — Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla expressed confidence that former congressman Zaldy Co would eventually be arrested despite his pending political asylum application in France.

Speaking at the Kapihan ng Samahang Plaridel forum in Manila, Remulla said Co is currently staying in a luxury property on Champs-Élysées Avenue in Paris.

According to Remulla, the house has 10 bedrooms, high ceilings, and is located near a Christian Dior store. He estimated the property’s value at around 200 million euros or dollars.

Despite Co’s asylum application, Remulla said Philippine authorities are optimistic they can secure his arrest before French authorities decide on the request.

He noted that the Philippine government had already sought an Interpol red notice against Co in September 2025.

“I am confident we’ll get the red notice and I’m confident we’re going to get Zaldy Co back here to the Philippines… This is the only hope we have,” Remulla said.

He added that asylum proceedings in France could take around six months or longer, but expressed confidence Co would be apprehended before the process ends.

Co is facing corruption and malversation charges linked to an alleged anomalous ₱289-million flood control project in Oriental Mindoro.

The Ombudsman earlier filed charges against Co and 17 others, including Department of Public Works and Highways officials and executives of Sunwest Corporation.

Co has denied the allegations.

Remulla also gave an update on former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque, whose asylum application has reportedly reached the six-month mark.

Roque is facing qualified human trafficking charges in connection with the alleged scam hub operated by Philippine offshore gaming operator (POGO) firm Lucky South 99.

“If the asylum is not granted, Roque could be expelled because he no longer has travel papers, and his case involves human trafficking, which is banned by all countries,” Remulla said.

Roque has denied the accusations and described the charges as politically motivated.

The interior secretary said the government continues to pursue legal remedies, including Interpol requests, to bring both Co and Roque back to the Philippines.

Remulla also spoke about businessman Atong Ang, who he said remains wanted for kidnapping and serious illegal detention.

“Kumikita yan ng P1billion a day from his gambling operations, ganyang ang war chest nyan but in time mahuhuli rin natin yan,” Remulla said.