Fugitive Filipino Ex-Lawmaker Zaldy Co Seeks Asylum in France

May 5, 2026

61 min

May 5, 2026 11:31

How fugitive Filipino ex-lawmaker Zaldy Co ended up in France

## Background

Zaldy Co, a former Filipino congressman, is currently seeking asylum in France after fleeing graft and malversation charges in the Philippines. Co, who once led the House Appropriations Committee, is accused of involvement in sub-standard or non-existent flood control projects.

## Escape Route

Co left the Philippines in July 2025, citing a medical procedure in the US. Subsequently, he moved to Portugal, where he was briefly detained in the Czech Republic due to documentation issues. He then traveled to France, where he is now under French jurisdiction while his asylum application is processed.

## Legal Challenges

The Philippines has requested an Interpol "Red Notice" to facilitate Co's arrest, but as of May 2026, it has not been issued. Without this notice, Czech authorities had no obligation to detain him when he was in Prague. The Philippines is working diplomatically to secure his return, but the lack of an extradition treaty with France complicates matters.

## Current Status

Co is reportedly under French "oversight" rather than strict detention. His asylum claim, based on alleged political persecution, could delay or prevent his return to the Philippines. French law, along with EU regulations, will play a significant role in determining his fate.

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