Stronger Asean police ties pushed vs transnational crime
MANILA, Philippines — The Philippines is pushing for enhanced regional law enforcement cooperation, citing the crucial role of police chiefs in combating transnational crimes.
During the meet-and-greet of the police chiefs of ASEANAPOL member-countries last Thursday, Marcos administration officials expressed support for stronger law enforcement cooperation as the region confronts present and emerging security issues.
“Regional security is strengthened when law enforcement agencies build lasting partnerships founded on trust, professionalism and a common commitment to protect our people. Together, we are better equipped to confront security threats that transcend national borders,” Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Jose Nartatez Jr. said during the event held at Malacañang.
“Every opportunity to engage with our counterparts reinforces our shared resolve to uphold the rule of law and build a safer future for the ASEAN community. These enduring partnerships remain vital in addressing both present and emerging security challenges,” he added.
Executive Secretary Ralph Recto underscored the important responsibility entrusted to police chiefs and the need for sustained regional cooperation in combating transnational crimes, including cybercrime, illicit drug trafficking, human trafficking, online child sexual exploitation, fraud and other forms of organized crime that require coordinated action among law enforcement agencies in Southeast Asia.
The meet-and-greet was attended by police chiefs and senior delegates from the 10 ASEANAPOL member-countries.
In partnership with the ASEANAPOL Secretariat, the Philippine National Police is hosting the 44th ASEANAPOL Conference from July 22 to 26 at the Manila Marriott Hotel in Pasay under the theme, “United in Vision: Securing People and Strengthening Collaboration.”
The conference aims to strengthen operational cooperation and information sharing, advance coordinated responses against transnational crime and highlight the Philippines’ commitment to strengthening regional law enforcement partnerships and reinforcing cooperation among ASEAN police organizations in addressing shared security challenges.
Stronger laws
Another security concern discussed during the ASEANAPOL was the recent school violence in the country.
During the conference, the PNP and its ASEAN counterparts pushed for stronger laws to deter active shootings and other forms of violence in schools.
“Upon coordination and talks, meetings with our neighboring countries and dialogue partners, they have different laws and we will try to consider them,” Nartatez said at a news briefing yesterday after meeting with his counterparts from Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam.
Nartatez also revealed that the PNP is studying Australia’s law banning social media use for youths under 16 years.
“If other nations are looking at the law in Australia, we can adopt or improve it,” he said.
Recently, two teenagers went on a shooting rampage at a school in Tacloban City, killing three of their schoolmates and wounding 20 others. — Emmanuel Tupas
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