• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
The Army’s 3rd Infantry ‘Spearhead’ Division (3ID) has reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding national security as it joined the formal launch of the Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Task Force in Western Visayas on March 23, at Camp General Martin Teofilo Delgado in Iloilo City.
The 3ID was represented by 2LT Kristine Tupas, Officer-in-Charge, Division Staff Judge Advocate, alongside other key officers of the division, underscoring the Army’s active role in strengthening inter-agency collaboration.
Representatives from the Department of Justice–Office of the Regional Prosecutor 6 (DOJ-ORP6), National Intelligence Coordinating Agency (NICA6), Police Regional Office 6 (PRO6), National Bureau of Investigation (NBI6), Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA6), Bureau of Customs (BOC6), Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC6), and other partner agencies also joined in the initiative.
The task force aims to enhance intelligence sharing and case build-up, intensify operations against individuals and groups engaged in money laundering and terrorism financing, and align regional efforts with national and international standards in combating financial crimes.
During the launch, agency heads emphasized that financial crimes not only destabilize the economy but also pose grave threats to national security. They committed to a whole-of-government approach to ensure Western Visayas remains vigilant and resilient against groups exploiting the financial system.
In a statement, Major General Michael Samson, 3ID commander, who expressed full support for the initiative, said the activation of the task force marks a significant step in protecting the people and communities from the threats posed by money laundering and terrorism financing.
Samson added that the 3ID stands ready to work closely with partner agencies to ensure that Western Visayas remains secure and stable.
“This is not just about law enforcement—it is about safeguarding the future of our nation. Together, we will deny criminal and terrorist groups the means to undermine peace and development in our region,” he added.
The multi-agency task force was activated in line with Department Memorandum Circular No. 030 issued by the Department of Justice, mandating closer coordination among government agencies to combat money laundering and terrorism financing nationwide.*
