The Department of Justice (DOJ) clarified that former lawmaker Zaldy Co was not formally arrested in the Czech Republic, but is currently under a form of “deprivation of liberty,” as the Philippine government moves to secure his return.

DOJ Spokesperson Polo Martinez explained that Co’s situation does not meet the legal definition of arrest under Czech law, stressing the importance of jurisdictional distinctions.

“To clarify, while he was not technically arrested, his liberty was restrained… Technically, not arrested but there is a deprivation of liberty to a certain degree,” Martinez said, likening it to a traveler being denied entry at an airport.

He added that more details will be confirmed once Justice Secretary Fredderick Vida arrives in Prague and coordinates directly with the Czech authorities.

“We’ll find out more once the Secretary of Justice has touched base with Czech authorities,” he said.

Despite earlier statements from President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. that Co had been “arrested,” the DOJ clarified that Czech authorities cannot formally arrest him in the absence of a local warrant, as the case against him is pending in the Philippines.

The government is now focused on facilitating Co’s return to face charges before the Sandiganbayan. Justice Secretary Vida departed for the Czech Republic on April 23, accompanied by Chief State Counsel Dennis Chan, to initiate high-level discussions with Czech officials.

According to the DOJ, talks will explore several legal pathways, including deportation, extradition, or cooperation under international agreements such as the United Nations Convention Against Corruption.

Authorities said Co is being held under “very humane” conditions while coordination continues, although the specific agency handling his custody has not been disclosed.

The DOJ emphasized that the Philippines must respect Czech sovereignty and legal processes, noting that any transfer will depend on the outcome of negotiations and compliance with both domestic and international law.

As of now, officials have not provided a definitive timeline for Co’s return, but expressed confidence that diplomatic and legal efforts are actively progressing.