The Department of Justice (DOJ) on Friday formally signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Australia and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) to institutionalize standard operating procedures (SOP) for terrorism and terrorism financing cases.
Present at the ceremonial signing were Australian Ambassador HK Yu and UNODC Country Manager Daniele Marchesi.
In his keynote speech, Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla said recent global incidents demonstrate the borderless nature of terrorism such that there is a need for collective action, shared intelligence, and international cooperation.
“As we begin this new year, we are reminded of the grave and persistent threats posed by terrorism and terrorism financing—threats that incite violence, destabilize communities, and endanger both national and global security,” Remulla said, citing the vehicle-ramming attack in New Orleans and the Tesla Cyber Truck explosion outside the Trump Hotel in Las Vegas.
By aligning the SOPs with international standards, Remulla said it will ensure the Philippines plays a significant role in the global fight against terrorism.
He explained the SOPs are designed to remain relevant and effective in addressing emerging threats but their success depends on how they are implemented.
