Malacañang clarified that Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla’s earlier estimate that fugitive former lawmaker Zaldy Co could be returned to the Philippines within one to three weeks was his personal view and not an official government position.
Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said the statement did not reflect the position of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. or the Palace, especially after officials confirmed Co is currently in France seeking asylum.
Remulla had earlier suggested a possible quick deportation following Co’s reported detention in the Czech Republic, but later apologized for assuming that repatriation procedures were the same as in the Philippines.
Authorities also said Co is no longer in Czech custody, complicating efforts to secure his return.
The Palace stressed that updates on the case will only come from official channels and not individual assessments.
Source: PhilNews24 | April 29, 2026
