MANILA — President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Friday called on law ministers from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) to intensify regional cooperation in combating cybercrime and addressing legal and ethical issues surrounding artificial intelligence (AI).

Speaking at the opening of the 13th ASEAN Law Ministers Meeting (ALAWMM) at the Grand Hyatt Manila in Taguig City, Marcos welcomed the signing of the ASEAN Extradition Treaty (AET), which the Philippines is chairing this year.

“The AET reflects our collective resolve – that individuals with criminal charges will not escape justice by crossing borders in ASEAN,” the President said.

The treaty outlines extradition procedures for nationals, provisional arrest protocols, documentation requirements, and mechanisms for dispute settlement and implementation. Marcos described it as a “landmark treaty” that strengthens the region’s legal foundation.

“With this landmark treaty, we send a clear message to the world that we are united and that our legal foundation is stronger than ever,” he said.

While the AET bolsters efforts against traditional cross-border crimes, the President urged ASEAN law ministers to expand collaboration to address emerging challenges.

“I speak of the threat of cybercrimes and the ethical and legal implications of Artificial Intelligence. We must ensure that our laws can govern the digital space fairly and securely,” Marcos said.

He also called for heightened efforts to ensure secure and sustainable growth in the region, anchored on human dignity.

“We make these efforts to promote the idea that the law continues to be the great equalizer of our time. This is especially true now as we have seen how corruption, inefficiency, and impunity can erode the moral bases of our societies,” he said. “Therefore, we must ensure that the legal framework works for the benefit of our peoples.”

Marcos thanked ASEAN law ministers, senior officials, and partners, reaffirming the Philippines’ commitment to strengthening regional cooperation.

“Let us continue on this path as we make the Rule of Law the most enduring promise we can make to our peoples. Together, let us honor that promise and work towards it, united in the belief that justice and fairness know no borders in ASEAN,” he said.

The ALAWMM, established in 1986 in Bali, Indonesia, serves as a regional platform for justice ministers, attorneys-general, and legal officials to promote the rule of law and advance cooperation among ASEAN legal institutions.