Philippine officials travel to France to seek return of Zaldy Co and Loren Legarda

Philippine officials, including Ombudsman Jesus Crispin “Boying” Remulla and Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla, are traveling to France to seek international cooperation in locating and returning former lawmaker Zaldy Co and Senator Loren Legarda.

Zaldy Co faces criminal allegations involving a ₱299.4-million irregular flood control project in Oriental Mindoro, as well as a larger ₱7.4-billion plunder case. Co was previously released by authorities in the Czech Republic and Germany because no Interpol Red Notice was in place. He is believed to be in France, where he may have applied for asylum.

Senator Legarda and Representative Leandro Leviste also reportedly traveled toward France following investigations by the Office of the Ombudsman. Ombudsman Remulla stated the mission to France is intended to “lay the groundwork” and facilitate an exchange of information with French authorities to ensure compliance with European Union rules regarding the return of individuals facing criminal liabilities.