Pinoys in Tokyo advised vs being drug couriers

The Philippine Embassy in Japan, relaying an advisory of the Department of Justice (DOJ) reminded Filipinos in that country against becoming drug mules. The Embassy posted on its website the advisory opinion, which outlined issues on recruitment, arrest, detention and conviction of Filipino drug mules abroad. "As with its previous Advisory Opinion regarding the basic rights of citizens in military/police checkpoints, Advisory Opinion No. 2 is in line with the thrust of the DOJ to take a pro-active stance in criminal justice concerns, including the issue on Filipino illegal drug couriers or 'drug mules,'" the Embassy said. The embassy said the DOJ’s advisory is addressed both to Filipinos who "willingly" accept offers to become illegal drug couriers and to those who were involuntarily caught in the criminal activities of syndicates through various modus operandi. In either case, the embassy said the advisory lays down basic rules that all Filipinos should bear in mind once they are apprehended abroad on suspicion of transporting illegal drugs. The embassy listed the 10 advisory points issued by the DOJ: 1. Carry at your own risk. 2. Knowledge is immaterial and intent is not a requirement in drug trafficking. 3. Be vigilant of the modus operandi of drug courier syndicates. 4. In the unfortunate event of arrest or detention for drug trafficking, have presence of mind and do not resist arrest. 5. Assert your legal rights, inquire on the legal remedies and request for consular assistance. 6. Presumption of innocence will always apply. 7. The laws of the country of arrest apply. 8. If sentenced, the government can only be of limited assistance. 9. “Blood money" cannot be paid to erase the liability of a person convicted of a crime involving illegal drugs. 10. Take full responsibility of your actions. The Embassy noted the DOJ’s Advisory Opinion No. 2 was issued at a time when more and more Filipinos are being arrested and convicted in various countries allegedly for being drug couriers. "It seeks to (warn) Filipinos of the legal consequences of being involved, voluntarily or involuntarily, in the criminal activities of illegal drug syndicates," it said. - VVP, GMA News