Philippine DOJ and UNODC Join Forces to Combat Cybercrime

MANILA – The Philippine Department of Justice’s Office of Cybercrime is set to collaborate with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) to enhance the enforcement of cybercrime laws. The partnership aims to bolster the capabilities of digital forensic experts, cybercrime investigators, and prosecutors in the country. DOJ Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla emphasized the urgency of this initiative due to the rising tide of cybercrimes and cyber-enabled incidents in the Philippines. To further this collaboration, Remulla will lead a delegation to the UNODC headquarters in Vienna, Austria, to meet with Executive Director Ghada Fathi Waly. The delegation’s itinerary also includes a visit to the UNODC’s Crime Laboratory. These engagements are scheduled during the 68th Session of the UN Commission on Narcotic Drugs, taking place from March 10 to 14. The DOJ stated that these efforts align with the Marcos administration’s dedication to upholding human rights and the rule of law. Meanwhile, Undersecretary Jesse Hermogenes Andres, who leads the DOJ’s Law Enforcement Cluster, is spearheading discussions with the UNODC team in the Philippines. Andres aims to establish a robust system for acquiring and using digital forensic tools essential for cybercrime investigations. He stressed the importance of securing funding for the continuous renewal of licenses for these critical tools. The DOJ and UNODC are planning to formalize their partnership through a comprehensive memorandum of agreement in May, which will encompass various justice sector programs, including prison reform and forensic advancements.