ILOILO CITY – Efforts to combat financial-related crimes in the region have been strengthened following the establishment and launch of a multi-agency Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Task Force at Madia-as Hall, Camp General Martin Teofilo B. Delgado, Fort San Pedro, Iloilo City on March 23.
The initiative brings together various law enforcement and intelligence units in Western Visayas. It is aligned with Department of Justice Memorandum Circular No. 030, which mandates stronger coordination among agencies in addressing money laundering and terrorism financing across the country.
The newly formed task force is composed of representatives from the Department of Justice – Office of the Regional Prosecutor 6, National Intelligence Coordinating Agency 6, Police Regional Office 6, National Bureau of Investigation 6, the Philippine Army’s 3rd Infantry Division, Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency 6, Bureau of Customs 6, Securities and Exchange Commission, and other partner law enforcement agencies.
The task force aims to enhance inter-agency coordination, strengthen intelligence sharing and case build-up, and intensify operations against individuals and groups involved in money laundering and terrorism financing.
Agency heads and representatives reaffirmed their commitment to a “whole-of-government approach,” emphasizing the importance of collaboration in addressing complex financial threats. They stressed that money laundering and terrorism financing not only undermine economic stability but also pose significant risks to national security.
The task force is expected to focus on intelligence-driven operations, financial investigations, and prosecution of offenders, while strengthening the monitoring of suspicious transactions and enforcement of regulations.
Authorities added that the initiative aligns regional efforts with national and international standards in combating financial crimes, ensuring that Western Visayas remains vigilant and resilient against threats that exploit the financial system.| – Metro Western Visayas Bureau
