GMA signs 2 vital RP-UK accords

MANILA, Philippines - The Philippines and the United Kingdom have signed bilateral agreements aimed at improving legal cooperation between the two countries.

Malacañang said President Arroyo witnessed the signing of the Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty (MLAT) and an extradition treaty between the two countries during her visit to the UK.

Foreign Affairs Secretary Alberto Romulo signed the treaties on behalf of the Philippines, while Right Honorable Lord Mandelson represented the UK.

The MLAT is a bilateral mechanism allowing the two countries to assist each other in the investigative, prosecutorial and judicial processes related to criminal matters.

It increases the effectiveness of cooperation between the two countries in combating transnational and serious crimes such as terrorism, drug trafficking, money laundering, and exploitation of women and children.

The Extradition Treaty, on the other hand, provides the legal framework for either country to obtain custody of criminal offenders who have sought refuge in the other’s territory.

The increasing number of people-to-people exchanges between the Philippines and the UK necessitates the forging of an agreement that would ensure that criminals are afforded no safe haven in either country.

The Department of Foreign Affairs said the two treaties are complementary and would help deepen the already productive relationship among relevant law enforcement, legal and judicial authorities of the two countries.

President Arroyo arrived in the UK last Friday where she addressed business executives and other officials in the Emerging Markets Forum hosted by The Economist magazine.

She had just concluded a two-day state visit to Turkey. After the UK, the President will proceed to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.   — Marvin Sy