Metro Manila, Philippines – Former lawmaker Zaldy Co may be deported from the Czech Republic following his arrest, although he could also explore asylum as a legal option, said a law school dean.
Rodel Taton, dean of the Graduate School of Law at San Sebastian College-Recoletos, said deportation is the most likely route without an extradition treaty with the Czech Republic.
“As I have researched, wala,” Taton said when asked about an extradition agreement.
[Translation: As I have researched, there is none.]
He said Czech authorities may instead pursue deportation proceedings over alleged immigration violations.
“So, there are concepts like deportation if the extradition route is not possible, deportation may be proper,” Taton said.
Taton explained that deportation is an administrative process handled solely by the host country.
“Deportation is unilateral on the part of the Czech Republic and it is administrative in nature to return the person to the country of origin,” he added.
Taton said the country may also rely on diplomacy.
He said Co could also face prosecution in the Czech Republic for immigration violations before deportation, which could take months.
Asylum option may delay return
He said Co may apply for asylum, which could temporarily halt deportation proceedings.
“The effect of that is to suspend the process of deportation,” Taton said.
Taton said asylum claims could be based on alleged political persecution, although such arguments may be challenged given the criminal cases Co is facing.
“In this case there are arrest warrants for graft and malversation it may be very clear that this is not a case of persecution, rather prosecution,” he said.
Co was arrested in Prague after months in hiding and is facing graft and malversation charges in the Philippines.
