RP prods EU for better teamwork vs terror

The Philippines called on the European Union and Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) to work closer together in addressing the problems posed by global terrorism. Romulo, speaking at the first working session of the 16th EU-Asean Ministerial Meeting in Nuremberg, Germany, reiterated the Philippines is fully committed to the global war on terror. "With the firm commitment of both our regions, we should work even closer together in eliminating this scourge," he said, adding possible areas for continued cooperation are in capacity-building and information exchange. "We have enacted the Philippines Human Security Act of 2007. This Act strengthens our counter-terrorism efforts and also has safeguards against abuse ... As Asia's oldest democracy, the Philippines will not fight terrorism at the expense of human rights or the rule of law," he added. Romulo noted the Philippines has succeeded in greatly reducing the threat posed by the Abu Sayyaf, which has links to al-Qaeda and Jemaah Islamiyah. He added that being firmly on the road to peace has also reduced the terrorist threat in the Philippines. "We are also engaged in a peace process with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF). We are confident, despite delays, that a peace agreement is within our reach. A peace agreement would be of tremendous benefit, not just for Mindanao, but for the whole region as well," he said. Romulo thanked the EU and its member-states for their assistance in the peace process, saying accelerated assistance at this stage will further encourage peace talks. - GMANews.TV