Metro Manila, Philippines – Malacañang assured former lawmaker Zaldy Co of his safety when he returns to the country, while pointing out that there is no evidence to fear for his life.

Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro said the government is prepared to protect Co amid concerns by some officials that his life is in danger because of his knowledge of people involved in the flood control scandal.

“The government will always assure the safety and the needed protection to be given to Zaldy Co,” Castro said during a press briefing

Sen. JV Ejercito said a major challenge is to bring Co home “in one piece.”

However, Castro said threat allegations must first be backed by evidence.

“Dapat tingnan muna po natin, saan nanggagaling iyong sinasabing death threats? Mayroon na po bang naipakita?” she said.

[Translation: We must first determine where these alleged death threats are coming from. Has any proof been shown?]

She added that such claims remain speculative without documentation.

In November last year, Co’s legal counsel Ruy Rondain said that his client feared for his safety after his series of video exposes on the flood control scandal.

President Bongbong Marcos earlier confirmed that the government is coordinating efforts to bring Co back to the Philippines after he was intercepted abroad, although officials have been cautious in releasing details due to the involvement of foreign authorities.

Marcos also ordered the formation of a high-level coordination team to facilitate Co’s return, but Malacañang said the Department of Justice would provide specific details on the operation.

Castro said the government is being careful in releasing information, noting that another country is involved in the process.