Philippines, China to hold talks on prisoners’ accord

MANILA, Philippines—A bilateral agreement on transfer of prisoners is on the agenda of President Benigno Aquino when he visits Beijing this month, Justice Secretary Leila de Lima said Thursday.

Manila has initiated talks on Transfer of Sentenced Persons Agreement (TPSA) with China in September 2010, de Lima said.

De Lima said she met with the Chinese Ministers of Justice and of Public Security during her trip to China this week and discussed the prisoners’ agreement.

“There have been positive developments especially in the area of TSPA. This is the first time they have expressed commitment that they are willing to start the formal talks and negotiation with the end view of coming up signing [the agreement] within a period of three years or sooner,” she said.

She said a draft accord has already been sent to Beijing.

There are over 200 Filipinos in various jails in China.

The Philippines has existing agreements on convicted citizens with Thailand, Hong Kong and Spain.