Phl, UK to boost anti-terror cooperation

LONDON (via PLDT) – The Philippines and the United Kingdom will boost cooperation to achieve peace and security, adding to the existing cooperation efforts on police assistance and support for the peace talks between Manila and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front.

Earlier, President Aquino and Philippine Ambassador to the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland Enrique Manalo Jr. said the West Philippine Sea issue in relation to freedom of navigation to protect trade would also be discussed.

Presidential Communications Development and Strategic Planning Office Secretary Ricky Carandang said the main agenda of the President’s visit here would be trade and investments, but other issues would also likely be tackled.

The President arrived here Monday night (early yesterday morning Manila time) and was welcomed by Filipino and British officials.

In his departure speech, the President said he would thank the UK for its economic support to the Philippines in his meeting with British Prime Minister David Cameron today.

“They are also on our side in strengthening political ties and an important partner in improving coordination for security,” he said.

The President said the UK had been assisting the Philippine police and their capability to combat terrorism through Regional Counter Terrorism Investigations Management Course.

The UK is also active as part of the International Contact Group to achieve peace and security in Mindanao through peace negotiations.

Aquino said the UK also helped in successfully establishing and implementing the Citizen’s Charter for some local government units as part of the country’s Anti-Red Tape Act, which was aimed at promoting transparent and honest transactions in and with the government.

Carandang said “we have had training with British security forces” and there would be some talk about enhanced cooperation between police and law enforcement agencies.

“But in terms of defense, normally, we have not really had a lot of discussions with them on that,” Carandang said.