PNP, Australia intensify fight vs transnational crimes

The Philippine National Police (PNP) has strengthened its partnership with the Australian government to bolster joint efforts against child exploitation, cybercrime, terrorism and transnational organized crime, the PNP announced Sunday.

Acting PNP Chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said the initiative aims to deepen international cooperation and enhance the PNP’s capacity to address cross-border threats.

Last 23 October, Australian Ambassador to the Philippines Marc Innes-Brown led a delegation in a courtesy call on Nartatez at Camp Crame. He was accompanied by Australian Federal Police (AFP) Commander for Southeast Asia Craig Palmer and AFP Officer/Counsellor in Manila Detective Superintendent Brad Marden.

During the meeting, both parties discussed strategies to enhance collaboration through intelligence sharing, capacity building and technology-driven operations.

“We discussed ways to enhance our partnership in combating child exploitation, cybercrime, terrorism, and organized criminal activities,” Nartatez said. “Both the PNP and the Australian Federal Police recognize the importance of intelligence sharing, capacity building, and technology-driven solutions to strengthen our joint operations.”

Nartatez expressed appreciation for Australia’s continued support in improving the PNP’s technical skills and investigative capabilities, calling the partnership “very strong and productive.”

“Through this collaboration, we are not only protecting Filipinos but also contributing to regional peace and security,” he added.

The PNP chief reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to strengthening international cooperation.

“Together, we fight for peace, security and justice — not only in the Philippines, but across the region,” Nartatez said.