Inp.polri.go.id - Manila.  Indonesia is open to repatriating three Filipino citizens serving life sentences in Indonesian prisons, said Coordinating Minister for Law, Human Rights, Immigration, and Corrections, Yusril Ihza Mahendra during a bilateral meeting with Philippine Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla in Manila on Tuesday (22/7/2025).

“The transfer may proceed under a bilateral agreement or through the Transfer of Sentenced Persons mechanism, based on mutual respect for each country’s legal system,” MInister Yusril said, as quoted by antaranews.com.

He added that Indonesia may also request the return of five Indonesian citizens currently imprisoned in the Philippines.

The discussion also touched on strengthening Mutual Legal Assistance (MLA), combating cross-border drug trafficking, online gambling networks, and human trafficking. Yusril expressed support for the Philippines’ decision to shut down Philippine Offshore Gambling Operators (POGOs).

Both countries also explored cooperation in Islamic finance, with Indonesia offering to share expertise in Islamic banking, capital markets, and financial instruments.

(mg/inp/pr/rs)