ASEAN signs region-wide extradition treaty to combat crime

Southeast Asian nations have signed their first region-wide extradition treaty, establishing a unified legal framework to combat crime and ensure cross-border accountability.

The treaty aims to close a decades-old legal gap that allowed criminals in the region to escape arrest by fleeing to neighboring countries.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. welcomed the signing of the ASEAN extradition treaty, stating it proves the regional bloc is united in ensuring criminals can no longer use the region's borders as escape routes.

The treaty standardizes extradition procedures across Southeast Asia, covering everything from the arrest of suspects to how countries settle disputes over requests.

The Philippines, represented by Acting Justice Secretary Fredderick Vida, signed the treaty, underscoring the region's collective commitment to legal cooperation and security.

The Department of Justice will serve as the central authority for the Philippines in matters of extradition.