The nationwide manhunt for former Congressman Zaldy Co has intensified dramatically following new reports that authorities may have pinpointed his location. In a developing story that has captured the attention of the Filipino public, information has surfaced suggesting that the elusive politician, who is at the center of a massive corruption investigation involving billions of pesos, has been spotted abroad. This potential breakthrough comes as the government ramps up its efforts to hold him accountable for alleged anomalies in flood control projects and other infrastructure deals.

The search for Co has taken an international turn, with the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) previously hinting at his possible presence in Portugal using a foreign passport. However, recent developments have added a layer of specificity to these claims. An Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) based in Europe, identified only as “Alias Joyce,” has come forward with a startling revelation. In an exclusive radio interview, the witness claimed to be “100%” certain that Co is hiding in the country where they are currently working. The informant provided detailed accounts of Co’s alleged modus operandi, involving a network of Filipino drivers who ferry him to and from airports where his private plane is reportedly stationed. This intel suggests a sophisticated operation designed to keep the billionaire politician one step ahead of the law.

While the exact location in Europe remains a subject of investigation, the pressure on Co is mounting on multiple fronts. Back in the Philippines, the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) has executed a raid on a luxury condominium unit in Bonifacio Global City (BGC), Taguig, believed to be owned by Co. The operation, authorized by a Makati City court, was aimed at securing documents and preventing the destruction of evidence related to the alleged bid-rigging and “advanced payments” for favored contractors. Witnesses have previously testified that these units were used as drop-off points for suitcases filled with millions in kickbacks, painting a picture of systemic corruption that authorities are now determined to dismantle.

The immense wealth attributed to Co, including the reported 12 billion pesos in frozen assets and a fleet of air assets, has become a focal point of public outrage. Critics argue that such vast resources have allowed him to evade justice thus far. However, the government’s aggressive stance, including the potential issuance of an Interpol Red Notice, signals a tightening of the net. The administration has made it clear that “virtual” defenses and social media videos will not suffice; physical presence and accountability are required.

As the investigation deepens, the focus has shifted to the “enablers” who may be assisting Co in his evasion. The mention of specific drivers and the tracking of his private movements in Europe offer new leads for international law enforcement. For the Filipino people, the message is clear: the era of impunity is being challenged. Whether Co is in Portugal or elsewhere in Europe, the combined efforts of local raids and international intelligence gathering suggest that it is only a matter of time before the law catches up. The public now waits with bated breath to see if these latest leads will finally result in the return of Zaldy Co to face the charges against him.