Malacañang on Friday said the government would exhaust all efforts to ensure the return of former Ako Bicol Party-list Rep. Zaldy Co to the Philippines.

Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of government aid distribution in Batangas City, Executive Secretary Ralph Recto said the matter is being handled by the Department of Justice (DOJ).

He said updates would come from the DOJ, stressing that Justice Secretary Frederick Vida is in a better position to provide detailed clarification on Co’s situation.

“Secretary Vida will be back in a few days. He will provide some clarification,” Recto added.

“It is best that he answers the question. Wala pa akong update tungkol diyan. But rest assured na gagawin ng ating pamahalaan ang lahat ng dapat magawa para maibalik si (I do not have any update on that. But rest assured that the government will do everything that needs to be done to bring back) Zaldy Co.”

Co is now considered a fugitive as he faces charges due to his involvement in anomalous flood control projects.

The DOJ clarified that the term “arrest” may not strictly apply in describing actions taken by Czech authorities against Co.

Malacañang said Co’s case involved immigration concerns rather than a formal arrest due to his failure to present proper travel documents.

Vida and his team flew to Prague to coordinate with Czech authorities and secure Co’s return. (PNA)