The Philippines and the Netherlands reached an agreement on Monday to explore enhanced collaboration in law enforcement and legal matters, including mutual legal assistance, extradition, and the transfer of sentenced individuals.
In a joint statement issued after a meeting between Foreign Affairs Secretary Theresa Lazaro and Dutch Foreign Affairs Minister Tom Berendsen, both sides expressed strong backing to promote both countries’ shared values and aspirations in international affairs.
Former President Rodrigo Duterte is currently held at The Hague by the International Criminal Court (ICC) since March 2025 following his arrest on a warrant over alleged crimes against humanity linked to his administration’s brutal ‘war on drugs’ policy.
Similarly, Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa—chief enforcer of the ‘Oplan Tokhang’—was named by the ICC as a co-perpetrator in the high-profile international criminal case.
The foreign ministers also reaffirmed support for the timely conclusion of the Philippines-European Union Free Trade Agreement, citing its potential to boost trade, investment, and broader economic cooperation between the two sides.
This announcement coincided with the 6th round of negotiations between the EU and the Philippines in Manila, indicating a shared goal to strengthen economic partnerships, foster new opportunities for businesses and consumers, and support resilient, diversified supply chains.
The meeting between Lazaro and Berendsen was held as Manila and The Hague mark the 75th anniversary of their diplomatic relations.
As the Philippines chairs the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), both nations pledged to collaborate within the ASEAN framework to advance initiatives in the Practical Cooperation Areas (2025-2029), including potential new collaborations such as supporting the planned ASEAN Maritime Centre in the Philippines.
Following the 48th ASEAN Leaders Summit in Cebu, ASEAN members committed to deepening cooperation and enhancing understanding of maritime issues, notably through the establishment of the ASEAN Maritime Center in the Philippines, which aims to support ASEAN’s maritime efforts and foster cross-sector collaboration without duplication.
In a post-summit briefing, President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. stated that the proposed ASEAN Maritime Center aims to protect freedom of navigation and promote peaceful passage in the South China Sea amidst rising uncertainties.
Additionally, also expressed concern about challenges in the Indo-Pacific region, including the South China Sea.
They recognized the legally binding nature of the July 12, 2016, Award in the South China Sea Arbitration as a significant contribution to international law and the interpretation and application of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, emphasizing the importance of an open, inclusive, and resilient Indo-Pacific.
“The Ministers underscored their commitment to international law, including the UN Charter, the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea and the 1982 Manila Declaration on the Peaceful Settlement of Disputes,” it added.
On Sunday, May 17, Lazaro arrived in The Hague for an official visit commemorating the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and the Netherlands, the first such visit by a Philippine foreign secretary in 33 years.
