Philippines Tightens Laws on Financing of Terrorism

The Philippine government has taken a significant step in its fight against terrorism by implementing new rules and regulations to prevent the financing of terrorist activities. The “Act on the Suppression of Financing of Terrorism” was signed into law by President Benigno S. Aquino III last week, after being passed by Congress earlier this year.

Key Provisions

• Extra-territorial application: Allows the Philippines to prosecute individuals who commit crimes related to terrorism outside of the country’s territorial limits.
• Extradition: Provides for the extradition of foreign nationals accused of committing terrorist financing offenses and allows for the Philippines to request the extradition of individuals from other countries who have committed similar offenses.

Implementation

• The Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) is required to promulgate rules and regulations to implement the new law within 30 days. These rules are expected to include measures such as:
  • Designation and delisting of persons affected by the law
  • Notification of matters of interest
  • Procedures for evidence gathering

Repeal or Modification of Existing Laws

The law repeals or modifies existing laws that are inconsistent with its provisions.

Impact

The signing of this law is seen as a major victory in the Philippines’ fight against terrorism, which has been plagued by threats from various extremist groups in recent years. The government hopes that the new law will help to disrupt the financing of terrorist activities and prevent further attacks on Philippine soil.

Quote

“We believe that this law is a crucial step in our efforts to combat terrorism,” said Speaker Feliciano Belmonte Jr., who presided over the House of Representatives during the passage of the bill. “We are committed to doing everything we can to protect the Filipino people from the scourge of terrorism.”