Principles Governing the Approach to Combating Transnational Crime
- The approach covers a wide range of offenses including money laundering, trafficking in persons, piracy, illicit arms trade, drug trafficking, cybercrime, IP violations, and smuggling.
- Strict adherence to the rule of law with enforcement agencies ensuring no fear or favor, while respecting constitutional rights.
- Coordination and regular consultation among various government departments and agencies, harmonizing efforts and resources.
- Active community participation is essential, as empowered citizens serve as information networks and crime deterrents.
- Strong emphasis on regional and international cooperation consistent with treaties and agreements to which the Philippines is a party.
Components of the Comprehensive Program
- Information and intelligence gathering: Establishment of a central database consolidating laws, case files, profiles, and other relevant data to assist prevention, detection, and prosecution.
- Strategic research: Conducting studies on crime structures, dynamics, and vulnerabilities to inform policy, strategy, and legislation.
- Law enforcement operations: Developing synergistic plans and procedures among law enforcement to address both supply and demand aspects of transnational crime.
- Capacity-building and empowerment: Training and programs for law enforcement, local government units, NGOs, civil society, and community leaders.
- Regional and international cooperation: Technical assistance, information exchange, participation in fora, and agreements addressing transnational crime internationally.
Institutional Mechanism for Implementation
- The Presidency: Provides active leadership in the anti-transnational crime campaign.
- Special Envoy on Transnational Crime (SETC): Appointed by the President with ambassadorial rank, charged with policy direction, program standards, advising the President, representing the Philippines internationally, and coordinating agency efforts.
- Transnational Crime Councils and Boards: Existing bodies like the Anti-Money Laundering Council and Dangerous Drugs Board continue their specific mandates but coordinate with SETC. They submit periodic reports to the President through the SETC.
- Secretariat: The PCTC provides technical, operational, and administrative support to the SETC, headed by an Executive Director.
Funding Provisions
- SETC's budget sourced from funds identified by the Secretary of Budget and Management.
- Annual appropriations for SETC and PCTC included in the Office of the President’s budget proposal.
Support and Authority for Implementation
- The SETC is empowered to call on all government departments, agencies, instrumentalities, and government-owned or controlled corporations to assist in program implementation.
- This authority extends to the Councils and Boards involved in combating specific transnational crimes.
Repeal and Effectivity
- All existing orders, rules, regulations, or parts inconsistent with this Executive Order are repealed or modified.
- The Executive Order takes immediate effect upon issuance.