Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla said on Monday that deporting former congressman Zaldy Co from Portugal is unlikely, as Portuguese law only allows deportation if the alleged crimes occurred before he acquired citizenship about a decade ago.
The Philippines also lacks an extradition treaty with Portugal, further limiting legal avenues to compel his return despite ongoing criminal cases linked to the multibillion-peso flood control scandal.
Remulla noted that any action must comply with both countries’ legal frameworks and international law, and that authorities are reviewing feasible options under United Nations conventions and multilateral agreements.
While some lawmakers, including Rep. Leila de Lima, urged diplomatic negotiations to repatriate Co without a formal treaty, Remulla stressed that deportation requires adherence to the rule of law.
No timeline has been set for bringing Co back to the Philippines, where he faces multiple charges.
Source: PhilNews24 | January 20, 2026
