Title
Exec Order No. 265 on Transnational Crime
Law
Executive Order No. 265
Decision Date
Jan 23, 2004
Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo's Executive Order No. 265 establishes a comprehensive program to combat transnational crime in the Philippines through coordinated efforts among government agencies, community engagement, and international cooperation, addressing issues such as money laundering, trafficking, and cybercrime.

Governing Principles

  • A comprehensive approach covers a broad spectrum of crimes including money laundering, trafficking in persons, piracy, small arms trade, drug trafficking, fraud, cybercrime, intellectual property violations, and smuggling.
  • Enforcement must respect the rule of law and constitutional rights without fear or favor.
  • Coordination and consultation among government agencies are essential to focus and synchronize efforts.
  • Community participation is vital as grassroots vigilance acts as a significant deterrent.
  • Mutual assistance and cooperation with regional and international partners must be vigorously pursued.

Core Components of the Program

  • Strengthening information and intelligence gathering, including creating a centralized database of laws, cases, and profiles related to transnational crime.
  • Conducting strategic research on transnational crime structures, dynamics, and vulnerabilities to inform policies and strategies.
  • Intensifying law enforcement operations with coordinated plans and procedures addressing both supply and demand sides of crimes.
  • Capacity-building and empowerment of stakeholders including law enforcement, local governments, NGOs, and community leaders through training and programs.
  • Reinforcing regional and international cooperation through technical assistance, information exchange, participation in forums, and agreements.

Institutional Mechanism

  • The President leads the campaign against transnational crime.
  • The Special Envoy on Transnational Crime (SETC), appointed by the President with ambassadorial rank, sets policies, advises the President, coordinates government efforts, and represents the Philippines internationally.
  • Existing councils and boards (e.g., Anti-Money Laundering Council, Anti-Trafficking Council, Dangerous Drugs Board) retain their functions but must coordinate closely with the SETC.
  • The Philippine Center on Transnational Crime (PCTC) serves as the secretariat supporting the SETC, providing technical, operational, and administrative assistance.

Funding

  • The SETC's budget will be sourced and identified by the Secretary of Budget and Management.
  • The budgets of the SETC and PCTC shall be incorporated into the Office of the President's budget proposal.

Agency Support and Authority

  • The SETC is authorized to call on all government departments, agencies, instrumentalities, and government-owned or controlled corporations to support the program's implementation.
  • This authority extends to councils and boards involved in combating specific transnational crimes.

Repeal and Effectivity

  • All previous orders, rules, regulations, and issuances inconsistent with this Executive Order are repealed or modified accordingly.
  • The Executive Order takes effect immediately upon issuance.

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