Malacañang on Tuesday signaled a potential escalation in the high-profile hunt for former Ako Bicol Party-list representative Zaldy Co, announcing it is “open” to offering a monetary reward for information leading to the fugitive lawmaker’s arrest.
Presidential Press Officer Claire Castro told reporters that while a formal plan for a bounty has not yet been finalized, the proposal to offer a cash reward is being viewed favorably.
“For now, nothing has been discussed about that. But since we heard your suggestion, it may be considered,” Castro said during a press briefing, acknowledging the proposal as a “good suggestion” for speeding up the apprehension.
The administration’s consideration of a reward follows a firm directive from President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., who has ordered all concerned government agencies to coordinate on locating Co overseas and ensuring his swift return to the Philippines.
Co has been the subject of an intense manhunt following the issuance of an arrest warrant. Reports have placed the former representative in Portugal, though Castro was careful to note that authorities are still in the process of verifying his actual location as part of their coordinated efforts.
“The President has already ordered them to search for and bring back Zaldy Co. All concerned agencies must verify information and help ensure his immediate return to the Philippines,” she stressed.
The Palace’s willingness to introduce a monetary incentive underscores the government’s determined stance on bringing the high-profile fugitive back to face justice in the country.