The Philippine National Police (PNP), led by Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., expressed its strong support for the adoption of a landmark regional declaration aimed at bolstering anti-crime cooperation across Southeast Asia.
PGEN Nartatez emphasized that the adoption of the Phnom Penh Declaration reinforces the nation’s commitment to protecting citizens from cyber-enabled fraud, human trafficking and other cross-border offenses.
“As criminals continue to exploit borders, technology, and vulnerable communities, our response must be equally coordinated and resolute. We must strengthen our partnerships across the region to disrupt transnational syndicates, protect our people and ensure that no criminal group can use national boundaries as a shield against justice,” Nartatez said.
The Philippines joined 27 other nations in adopting the Phnom Penh Declaration during the International Conference on Combating Online Scams (ICCOS) held in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, from September 23 to 24.
The declaration outlines 11 strategic commitments focused on executing joint operations, dismantling illegal networks, enhancing legislative frameworks and providing protection and assistance to victims of online scams.
Filipinos have frequently been targeted by human trafficking and forced labor rings operating online scam hubs throughout the region.
Nartatez affirmed that the PNP will maintain close operational ties with Cambodian law enforcement to track down syndicates and assist victims. The PNP is currently coordinating with Cambodian authorities regarding several Filipino nationals rescued or impacted by scam operations based in Cambodia.
“Through our strengthened partnerships with other countries, like Cambodia, we can solidify our regional security framework to combat cross-border crimes,” Nartatez added.