MANILA – The Sandiganbayan Seventh Division has ordered the archiving of the graft case against fugitive former lawmaker Zaldy Co after authorities failed to arrest him more than six months after a warrant was issued.

In a report, it said that in a resolution dated June 24, the anti-graft court said Co remains at large despite efforts by law enforcement authorities to locate him.

“It appears from the record that accused Elizaldy ‘Zaldy’ Salcedo Co has remained at large for more than six months from the time the Warrant of Arrest was delivered to the proper police officers for implementation,” the court stated.

Archiving a case temporarily suspends court proceedings when no further action can be taken without dismissing the charges.

According to judicial records, National Bureau of Investigation Agent-on-Case Rehom Pimentel reported in the return of the warrant that authorities were unable to locate Co.

“Despite efforts undertaken, the accused could not be located at the address indicated in the Warrant of Arrest.”

The Seventh Division, chaired by Associate Justice Lorifel Pahimna, said the case may be revived once the court acquires jurisdiction over Co.

“Without prejudice to the reinstatement or revival of the case and its withdrawal from the archives upon the such time as the Court acquires jurisdiction over his person.”

Co is facing graft and malversation charges in connection with the alleged anomalous road dike project in Naujan, Oriental Mindoro.

He left the Philippines in July 2025 after obtaining travel authority for medical treatment. The Sandiganbayan later issued a warrant for his arrest on Nov. 21, 2025.

In April, Malacañang said Co was no longer in the custody of the Czech Republic and had traveled to France, where he is seeking political asylum.