According to the Philippine Inquirer, Co is accused of being a central figure in the multibillion-peso flood control scandal. De Lima, a former justice secretary, argued that deportation is the “most logical and uncomplicated option,” stressing that an extradition treaty is not indispensable for returning fugitives.
She warned that the administration’s reliance on a treaty reflects a “laid-back attitude” and undermines public confidence in its ability to swiftly prosecute those behind the scam.
Her remarks followed Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla’s disclosure that Marcos had instructed agencies to explore all possible avenues for Co’s repatriation, including coordination with Interpol, the UN, and other international partners.
Remulla admitted, however, that negotiating a treaty with Portugal could take years, making deportation or other diplomatic channels more practical.
De Lima emphasized that urgency is critical, noting that the cancellation of Co’s passport should have already triggered deportation efforts. Failure to act decisively, she said, risks reinforcing perceptions that the administration is not serious about holding powerful figures accountable.
