THE SENATE foreign relations committee is likely to endorse a proposed Philippine extradition treaty with Russia.

The committee headed by Senator Aquilino L. Pimentel III tackled the treaty signed on Nov. 13, 2017 between then Justice Secretary Vitaliano N. Aguirre II and Russian Minister of Justice Alexander Konovalov.

Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Enrique A. Manalo said President Rodrigo R. Duterte signed the instrument of ratification on Sept. 17.

The treaty will allow the Philippines to return to Russia its citizens who are fugitives from justice who have sought refuge here, and vice versa.

“The committee members present here are inclined to favorably endorse the concurrence of the Senate,” Mr. Pimentel said during the hearing. Also present were Senators Francis N. Tolentino and Ronald M. dela Rosa.

Under the law, treaties with other countries must be concurred in by at least two-thirds of the Senate.

If ratified, it will be the Philippines’ 14th extradition treaty, aside from those signed with Australia, Canada, China, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Republic of Korea, Micronesia, Spain, Switzerland, Thailand, United Kingdom and United States.

“Once this treaty enters into force, the Philippines will not only enhance bilateral and legal cooperation with Russia but will also be fulfilling an international obligation,” Mr. Manalo said.

At the same hearing, the committee also moved to endorse the Philippines’ Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty with Russia, which was signed also on Nov. 13. Mr. Duterte signed the instrument of ratification for the treaty on Sept. 26.

Justice Undersecretary Markk L. Perete said the treaty would improve the “effectiveness of the activity of both countries in combating crimes, including crimes related to terrorism.” — Charmaine A. Tadalan

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