DOJ, US renew collaboration on stronger prosecution work

Department of Justice (DOJ) facade. INQUIRER PHOTO / NOY MORCOSO

MANILA, Philippines—The Department of Justice (DOJ) renewed its collaboration with the US government to strengthen prosecutorial institutions through various projects, including establishing a DOJ academy.

According to the DOJ in a statement on Friday, DOJ officials led by Justice Undersecretary Jesse Andres and officer-in-charge Prosecutor General Richard Fadullon met with officials of the United State’s Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Officials (INL) and the International Development Law Organization (IDLO) on Oct. 23.

“Officials of both governments recognized the vital role of strong prosecutorial institutions in maintaining public trust and ensuring effective justice systems,” the DOJ said.

“Thus, among the joint projects that they agreed to undertake is the establishment of the DOJ Academy as a permanent training institution for prosecutors and the launching of a mentoring program for prosecutors,” it added.

The DOJ officials also thanked the INL and IDLO for the US government’s help in “capacitating prosecutors” to investigate and prosecute money laundering, terrorism financing, and environmental crimes.

INL Deputy Assistant Secretary Brandon Yoder assured the DOJ of the US’ continuing support in “sustaining the gains that the partnership has so far achieved.”

The INL and IDLO officials were in the country for the third Philippines-United States Bilateral Maritime Dialogue.

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