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Former lawmaker detained in Prague
Philippine authorities have arrested Zaldy Co, a central figure in a corruption scandal that triggered nationwide protests, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr announced on Thursday. Co, a former legislator, was detained in the Czech capital after entering the country without valid travel documents.
Scandal fuels public outrage
Last year's devastating floods, which crippled daily life across the Philippines, exposed allegations that billions of dollars allocated for flood-control projects had been embezzled. The scandal, which cost the economy nearly $2 billion, sparked mass demonstrations in Manila, with protesters targeting both corrupt officials and their families who flaunted wealth on social media.
Government prioritizes accountability
Marcos has made combating corruption a key focus, as opinion polls show the scandal has eroded his public support. Co, who served in the House of Representatives from 2019 until his resignation in September 2025, is among those accused of receiving kickbacks from fraudulent projects. He left the Philippines in July 2025, according to local media reports.
Passport revoked, Interpol alert issued
The Philippine government canceled Co's passport last year and sought Interpol's assistance in tracking him down. Investigations revealed years of so-called "ghost" flood-control projects that drained public funds.
Extradition challenges ahead
With no extradition treaty between the Philippines and the Czech Republic, authorities are working closely with Prague to secure Co's return. Marcos stated that legal procedures are being followed to bring him back "at the soonest possible time."
"We are in close coordination with the Czech government to ensure all processes are adhered to,"
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr
Timeline for repatriation
Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla said in a radio interview on Friday that Co could be returned to the Philippines within one to three weeks. Other high-profile figures, including the House Speaker and a former Senate president, have also been implicated but deny wrongdoing.
Climate vulnerability amplifies crisis
The Philippines, which faces an average of 20 storms and typhoons annually, suffered severe losses in November 2025 when Typhoon Kalmaegi killed at least 85 people and submerged entire towns on Cebu Island. The disaster further intensified scrutiny of the government's flood-prevention efforts.
