The Bureau of Customs (BOC) and the US Embassy-Manila’s Special Operations Command Pacific INDOPACOM Augmentation and Philippines Information Team convened to explore potential areas of cooperation, intensify border control and strengthen the relationship between the two agencies.
The BOC said in a statement that during the May 18 meeting, officials from both agencies discussed various topics, including cooperation opportunities in law enforcement, maritime operations, investigations, capacity building and advanced technology implementation.
Additionally, the meeting addressed the provision of technical expertise and skills building that the US Embassy intends to extend to the BOC Enforcement and Security Service.
The government agency said that the consultative meeting represents a significant step forward in establishing a strong collaboration between the BOC and the US Embassy.
Both parties are committed to leveraging their collective expertise and resources to ensure more robust customs operations and safeguard national security.
“The establishment of a strong collaboration between the BOC and the US Embassy will undoubtedly enhance the capabilities and technical know-how of BOC personnel. This will create opportunities to intensify border protection and combat smuggling further,” customs commissioner Bienvenido Rubio said.
By collaborating with the US Embassy, the BOC aims to achieve excellence in securing and protecting customs authority across the border.
