Manila:The Philippine National Police (PNP) has pledged to bolster its intelligence-driven operations and cross-border coordination to disrupt criminal networks exploiting digital platforms and international borders. This commitment follows the 20th ASEAN Ministerial Meeting on Transnational Crime (AMMTC).

According to Philippines News Agency, PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. stated that the commitments made during the AMMTC would be transformed into concrete enforcement measures. These measures target human trafficking, cybercrime, illegal drug trafficking, money laundering, and illicit arms smuggling.

The Philippines, as this year's ASEAN chair, is hosting the AMMTC and related meetings from October 19 to 21. Discussions led by Department of the Interior and Local Government Secretary Remulla with ASEAN interior and security ministers focused on strengthening regional responses to cross-border criminal activities.

The meetings included consultations with China, Japan, and South Korea on combating online sexual abuse and exploitation of children, particularly through digital platforms and artificial intelligence. They also discussed cooperation in emergency preparedness and disaster relief.

Gen. Nartatez emphasized the need for the PNP to keep pace with criminal groups that increasingly use technology and operate across jurisdictions. He highlighted the importance of enhancing digital investigative capabilities, intelligence fusion, and specialized training to stay ahead of organized transnational crime groups.

The PNP chief also underscored the significance of timely intelligence exchange among ASEAN police forces. He noted that real-time information exchange allows law enforcement agencies to identify threats early, track fugitives effectively, and dismantle criminal networks before they can expand.