Manila: The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) on Thursday advocated for increased cooperation among the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) police forces in response to growing transnational crime threats, particularly cyber-enabled scams and online fraud, during the opening of the 44th ASEANAPOL Conference at the Marriott Hotel in Newport, Pasay City.
According to Philippines News Agency, the conference, themed "United in Vision: Securing People and Strengthening Collaboration," is taking place from July 22 to 26 and aims to reinforce partnerships among police leaders from the 10 ASEAN member states. The focus is on collective action against regional security threats. Also in attendance are ASEANAPOL dialogue partners and observers, whose continued engagement over four decades reflects a shared commitment to promoting peace, security, and stability across Southeast Asia.
Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla, addressing delegates at the opening ceremony, emphasized that transnational crimes have become increasingly sophisticated, technology-driven, and borderless. This development underscores the urgency of closer regional collaboration. Remulla stated that the DILG will continue to support initiatives that enhance intelligence sharing, operational coordination, and capacity building among police institutions.
Remulla highlighted the increasing complexity of cross-border threats, which have become more networked, adaptive, and technology-driven. These threats pose significant security challenges across the ASEAN region and include drug trafficking, terrorism, arms smuggling, trafficking in persons, wildlife crime, cybercrime, financial crime, maritime-related offenses, and cyber-enabled scams. He stressed that no single country can confront these evolving threats alone and underscored ASEANAPOL's vital role in strengthening intelligence sharing and operational coordination among Southeast Asian police organizations.
He reaffirmed the Philippines' commitment to advancing regional law enforcement cooperation through enhanced intelligence exchange, joint operations, and capacity-building initiatives. He noted that, guided by the leadership of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., the Philippines continues to work closely with neighbors and international partners to strengthen law enforcement collaboration and build safer, more secure, and resilient communities across the region.
Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. expressed the PNP's full commitment to working alongside ASEAN counterparts to strengthen intelligence sharing, enhance operational cooperation, build institutional capabilities, and embrace innovation to address emerging security threats. 'Together we can better protect our people and preserve the peace and security of our region,' Nartatez said.
