Philippines, Colombia vow to help each other in fighting illegal drugs

The Philippines and Colombia agreed Tuesday on how they could help each other in combating illegal drugs.

Philippine President Benigno S. Aquino III received in Malacanang, the presidential palace, Colombian President Juan Manuel Santos for a bilateral meeting ahead of a Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit.

"The two leaders noted their countries' common concerns in combating illegal drug trade and drug abuse," said Communications Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr.

Like Colombia, he said the Philippines has been taking steps to improve people's quality of life by bringing social opportunities closer to them, "thus channeling their energies to legitimate sources of income."

Santos has offered Colombia's knowledge and experience in the anti-illegal drugs campaign, Coloma said.

He noted that Aquino and Santos also exchanged views on their countries' respective peace process with the insurgent groups.

Aquino congratulated Santos on significant developments in Colombia's peace process and negotiations with the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia and expressed good wishes on scheduled signing of final agreement in 2016.

Coloma said Aquino offered the Philippine assistance and advice in the peace process, if needed.

The Philippines forged a a comprehensive peace agreement with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, the largest Muslim rebel group in the country, in March last year.

Santos is in Manila to participate in the APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting on Wednesday and Thursday as an observer. Endit