US to train prosecutors, police to enhance handling of criminal cases

Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla with US officials led by Senator Edward J. Markey met Thursday in Manila and talked about cooperation regarding programs for transparency and human rights. Photo from DOJ-PIO

Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla with US officials led by Senator Edward J. Markey met Thursday in Manila and talked about cooperation regarding programs for transparency and human rights. Photo from DOJ-PIO

MANILA, Philippines — The United States will provide training to Philippine prosecutors and police, the Department of Justice (DOJ) Spokesperson Jose Dominic Clavano IV said Friday.

“The US will provide support and assistance to our prosecutors to train them as well as the police, para po mas maganda ang maging takbo ng ating prosecution of cases, criminal cases (so that the prosecution of criminal cases will run smoothly),” Clavano said in an interview over state television PTV 4.

Clavano said the US support for prosecutors and the police were among the discussions during the meeting between US Senator Edward J. Markey and Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla.

The two officials met Thursday, August 18.

Clavano also said the two officials discussed how the Philippines could further improve transparency and human rights.

“Yesterday, there was a very good discussion on how US Senator Markey and his congressional delegate could help us in our programs to further transparency, further human rights,” Clavano said.

“And the Secretary was very receptive to the suggestions of the good US senator,” he said.

Earlier, Remulla has been pushing for retraining police officers, particularly on investigations and case build-up, aiming to increase the government’s conviction rate.

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