Former Ako Bicol party-list representative Elizaldy “Zaldy” Co is currently unwilling to return to the Philippines due to alleged serious threats to his life and strong public backlash, his legal counsel said on Wednesday.

Attorney Ruy Rondain, speaking in a media briefing, said Co fears for his safety and will not appear at the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee hearing scheduled on 14 November.

"He is definitely scared of coming home because of serious threats to his life," Rondain said. "One half of the country wants him to go to jail and throw away the key, the other half wants him strung to the nearest tree. Would you come home under these circumstances?"

Rondain argued that attending the Senate hearing would not be beneficial, emphasizing that the inquiry has yet to formally charge Co.

"I don't know what he has to explain to the Senate because the Senate is investigating facts, wala pa namang accusations sa Senate," he said.

Instead of appearing in person, Co is expected to issue a written statement in response to the Senate’s invitation.

During the briefing, Rondain also denied allegations of unexplained wealth and large cash deliveries said to have been linked to Co.

"Yes, I deny all the cash," he said, questioning the credibility of the testimonies.

He insisted that corruption accusations must demonstrate “actual damage to the government,” saying claims must specify “what, where, when, whom, and how.”

Rondain also clarified that Co’s wealth predates his time in Congress, noting that the former lawmaker declared a net worth of P4.1 billion when he assumed office in 2019.

Co left the country months ago reportedly for medical treatment. Rondain confirmed speaking to him recently but declined to disclose his whereabouts.

With threats still present, Rondain said a return to the Philippines may not be possible “until at least January.”