According to the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), the absence of an existing extradition agreement between the Philippines and Portugal presents a legal hurdle in compelling Co’s return. Officials said exploring a formal treaty is among the options being reviewed to address jurisdictional limitations.

DILG officials emphasized that extradition is a state-to-state legal process, not an executive shortcut. Even with political will, treaties require diplomatic negotiation, legal vetting, and ratification—often taking time.

Co, a former House appropriations panel chairman, is facing charges linked to alleged anomalies in flood control projects. He has denied the accusations and maintains that he will address the case through legal channels.

The administration’s position, officials said, is grounded in institutional process rather than personal pursuit. Any move toward extradition would follow constitutional requirements, international law, and due process safeguards.

Governance analysts note that the discussion reflects a broader challenge faced by many countries: enforcing accountability when accused individuals are outside national jurisdiction. While extradition mechanisms strengthen enforcement, they must balance sovereignty, legal reciprocity, and human rights protections.

For now, no treaty has been signed and no extradition proceedings have begun. The situation remains under diplomatic and legal review.

In cases like this, accountability does not move at the speed of headlines—but at the pace of law.