Manila: The Senate has approved five resolutions that align with international agreements concerning aviation safety, cross-border criminal cooperation, space liability, higher education qualifications recognition, and double taxation. These resolutions, sponsored by Senate Majority Leader Juan Miguel Zubiri, who also chairs the Committee on Foreign Relations, aim to enhance the Philippines' legal frameworks in these areas.
According to Philippines News Agency, the approved resolutions include Proposed Senate Resolution (PSR) Nos. 622, 624, 625, 626, and 628. Zubiri emphasized that the treaties related to aviation and space are essential as international travel and space activities increase. PSR 622 supports the Philippines' accession to the 2014 Montreal Protocol, amending the 1963 Tokyo Convention to address legal gaps involving disruptive or dangerous acts on flights. This measure aims to safeguard Filipino passengers and crew while reinforcing the country's commitment to aviation safety.
PSR 625 ratifies the Convention on International Liability for Damage Caused by Space Objects. The Philippines signed this convention in 1972, and with the establishment of the Philippine Space Agency in 2019, ratification became feasible. With more objects launched into space, the Philippines needs this convention to claim compensation for any space-related damages. Zubiri highlighted the significance of this treaty, citing UN data on the increasing number of space launches and recent debris incidents in Northern Luzon.
The Senate also approved PSR 624, which ratifies the Treaty on Mutual Legal Assistance in Criminal Matters between the Philippines and India. This treaty establishes a cooperative framework for criminal investigations, including evidence gathering and crime proceeds recovery. Similarly, PSR 626 facilitates the Philippines' accession to the Asia-Pacific Regional Convention on the Recognition of Qualifications in Higher Education, known as the Tokyo Convention. This pact promotes fair recognition of academic qualifications across Asia-Pacific countries, offering more opportunities for Filipino students and professionals abroad.
Lastly, PSR 628 endorses the agreement with Cambodia to eliminate double taxation and prevent tax evasion. This treaty aims to simplify tax regulations for individuals and businesses operating in both countries, fostering clearer rules for cross-border trade and investment.
These resolutions were part of a broader review by the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations, targeting international agreements on security, trade, investment, academic mobility, and criminal justice cooperation. For these treaties to become effective, the Constitution requires the concurrence of at least two-thirds of all Senate members.
