PNP Chief Vows Full Support for Marcos' Anti-Money Laundering Strategy
Philippine National Police (PNP) chief General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. has declared unwavering support for President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr.'s directive to formulate a comprehensive national strategy targeting money laundering and terrorism financing. This announcement follows President Marcos' recent order for government agencies to assist in drafting the National Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism/Proliferation Financing Strategy (NACS) for 2026–2030 under Memorandum Circular 113.
Aligning Police Operations with Financial Crime Fight
Nartatez emphasized that the police force is prepared to synchronize its investigative operations with the Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) to reinforce the nationwide campaign against financial crimes. "The Philippine National Police is fully committed to President Marcos' directive. We are ready to integrate our investigative powers with the AMLC in pursuing organized crime groups and syndicates, particularly those engaged in illegal drugs, smuggling, and cybercrimes," Nartatez stated.
Under the memorandum, the AMLC has been assigned to provide technical and administrative support, establish timelines, and oversee compliance among all government agencies involved in developing the NACS 2026–2030 framework.
Enhancing Inter-Agency Coordination and Digital Capabilities
The PNP chief highlighted plans to intensify inter-agency coordination, including data sharing and joint operations, to strengthen the national effort against illicit funds, often referred to as "dirty money." Additionally, Nartatez revealed that the police organization is upgrading its digital infrastructure and analytics capabilities to improve detection of suspicious financial transactions, especially those involving cross-border activities.
Personnel from the PNP's Anti-Cybercrime Group and Criminal Investigation and Detection Group, along with other relevant units, are currently undergoing specialized training in financial forensics, money laundering trends, and emerging financial crimes to bolster their expertise.
Targeting High-Risk Sectors and International Cooperation
Nartatez also noted that high-risk sectors such as real estate, casinos, and import-export businesses will face closer monitoring as part of the strategy. Furthermore, coordination with foreign law enforcement agencies will be enhanced to track illicit funds entering or leaving the country, ensuring a more robust global approach to combating financial crimes.
This comprehensive initiative underscores the Philippine government's commitment to addressing money laundering and terrorism financing through a unified and technologically advanced approach, with the PNP playing a pivotal role in its implementation.
