On August 20, 2024, in Vientiane, Lao PDR, ASEANAPOL Secretariat Executive Director David Martinez Vinluan, along with Police Brigadier General Lex Ephraim Gurat, the Philippine National Police (PNP) Director for Plans, and Police Colonel Wilson Santos IV, conducted a working visit to Her Excellency Deena Joy D. Amatong, the Philippine Ambassador to Lao PDR. The delegation was accompanied by Jorge Philippe Arcilla Arjona, the third secretary and vice consul of the Philippine Embassy.
This visit was held on the sidelines of the 31st Joint ASEAN Senior Police Officer Course (JASPOC), a major regional law enforcement event that took place from August 19 to 23, 2024. The delegation took advantage of their presence in Vientiane to engage with the Philippine Embassy, strengthening diplomatic and law enforcement ties between the Philippines and the ASEANAPOL Secretariat.
During the meeting, Executive Director Vinluan provided a comprehensive overview of the ASEANAPOL Secretariat’s mission and ongoing initiatives. He highlighted the Secretariat’s pivotal role in fostering deeper cooperation among ASEAN police forces, facilitating intelligence sharing, and coordinating joint efforts to combat transnational crimes such as human trafficking, cybercrime, drug smuggling, and terrorism. Vinluan emphasized that effective collaboration among ASEAN member countries is crucial for addressing these growing threats. He also reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring that ASEANAPOL serves as a strong foundation for regional law enforcement cooperation through ongoing dialogues and strategic consultations.
Police Brigadier General Lex Ephraim Gurat and Police Colonel Wilson Santos IV, representing the Philippine National Police, echoed the sentiments of Executive Director Vinluan. They reaffirmed the PNP's unwavering dedication to enforcing the law and countering the rising challenges of transnational crime. They further expressed their appreciation for the Philippine Embassy’s support and noted that strong diplomatic relations play a critical role in enhancing the effectiveness of law enforcement operations abroad. The PNP officers also discussed ongoing capacity-building efforts within the organization, which include specialized training programs aimed at equipping officers with the skills and knowledge needed to combat sophisticated criminal networks operating across borders.
Ambassador Amatong, in turn, expressed her gratitude for the visit and outlined the Philippine Embassy’s role in promoting the interests of Filipino nationals in Lao PDR. She provided insights into the embassy's efforts to assist Filipino citizens, including matters related to labor rights, legal assistance, and consular services. Ambassador Amatong also shared details about the embassy's active participation in various ASEAN forums, meetings, and conferences, which facilitate diplomatic dialogue and cooperation on issues ranging from economic development to security.
Both parties engaged in an open and constructive dialogue regarding the enhancement of their working relationship. They explored potential areas for closer collaboration between the ASEANAPOL Secretariat, the Philippine National Police, and the Philippine Embassy.
The meeting concluded on a highly positive note, with a mutual understanding that strengthening partnerships among law enforcement bodies, diplomatic missions, and international organizations is essential for addressing the multifaceted challenges of modern transnational crime. Both sides expressed optimism for future joint endeavors and reaffirmed their shared commitment to regional security and stability.
“Together We Keep This Region Safe"
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