The Department of Justice (DOJ) has confirmed that former AKO Bicol Party-list Representative Zaldy Co is no longer within the territory of the Czech Republic, following a high-level meeting between Philippine and Czech officials.

The development was revealed around 8 p.m. PHT, after the Philippine delegation met with their Czech counterparts. Czech Minister of Justice officially informed DOJ Secretary Fredderick Vida that Co was no longer in their custody.

"I have to share difficult news, mga kababayan. Czech authorities have informed us that Mister Zaldy Co is no longer in their custody. What we can confirm is that he is within the Schengen area," Secretary Vida said.

Despite the confirmation of his departure from Czech territory, Philippine officials believe the former lawmaker remains somewhere in Europe.

Vida noted that while they sought additional information, Czech authorities cited Schengen rules and data privacy laws as limitations. He added, however, that the conversation pointed toward the possibility of police cooperation, something that is currently still under negotiation between the Philippine and Czech governments.

"They were pointing to a possible police cooperation which we don't have, which is currently ongoing negotiation between the Philippine Government and Czech Republic," Vida said.

Meanwhile, the DOJ disclosed that it holds details regarding the vehicle used by Co during his time in Czech Republic, which has since become part of an active intelligence operation.

"Definitely he is travelling by land. We're also aware — we got information as to the registry of the vehicle, we also got information as to who the driver is," Vida said.

Earlier reports indicated that the former lawmaker was intercepted at the Czech-German border due to an immigration violation.

It was also confirmed that Co was found carrying three Philippine passports. Vida said their verification with the Bureau of Immigration revealed that Co had been issued three passports, one of which, an expired passport that lapsed on September 11, 2022, was the one he had in his possession when he was accosted by authorities. 

The two others include an official passport issued during his term as a congressman, and another passport that had been cancelled by Philippine courts.

Secretary Vida and the Philippine delegation are set to remain in Czech Republic until April 30. 

While the DOJ expressed disappointment over not being able to bring Co back with them to the Philippines, officials said they will work to expedite law enforcement mechanisms, including the processing of a Red Notice and the establishment of international police cooperation.