The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) is moving forward with its manhunt for former lawmaker Zaldy Co, even as it awaits the official issuance of an Interpol Red Notice against him.
The search follows a standing warrant of arrest linked to the high-profile flood control scandal, where Co is a primary person of interest.
While the Philippine government has requested international assistance to track his movements, the NBI confirmed on Monday that the Interpol has yet to formally publish the Red Notice on its public database.
Despite the lack of an active international alert, NBI officials stated that internal operations to locate the fugitive are ongoing.
Local authorities are currently monitoring known properties and coordinating with various law enforcement agencies to prevent Co from evading justice.
The NBI remains optimistic that the Interpol request will be processed soon, which would allow foreign law enforcement agencies to assist in his apprehension and subsequent extradition.
Co, who has been missing from the public eye since the allegations surfaced, faces serious charges related to the alleged misappropriation of multi-billion peso flood control funds.
Government investigators are looking into a network of contractors and officials allegedly involved in the scheme.
The Department of Justice (DOJ) previously signaled its intent to exhaust all legal avenues to ensure Co’s return to the country to face the charges filed against him.