The Bureau of Customs (BOC) has signed an inter-agency Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with 30 agencies and departments to further advance border security and management.
The BOC said in a statement yesterday that the MOU was signed via a virtual meeting on October 20, and it is part of the BOC’s commitment to border protection.
Under the MOU, the participants aim to establish a comprehensive and systematic mechanism in information sharing and strengthening border control capabilities.
It also seeks to create a harmonious working arrangement between all parties involved and strengthen inter-agency coordination and cooperation in the utilization of data and information resources.
Among the participating departments, with their respective agencies, are the Departments of Finance, Agriculture, Trade and Industry, Environment and Natural Resources, Health, Interior and Local Government, Justice, Science and Technology, Labor and Employment, National Defense, Information and Communications Technology, and the BangkoSentral ng Pilipinas and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency.
Rey Leonardo Guerrero, customs commissioner, said that the interaction between and among the agencies has been ongoing for some time now.
“Through the MOU, we are strengthening the alliance to cast a bigger net, and bring about more decisive action against illegal activities,” Guerrero said.
He also stressed the importance of continuously enhancing the alliance between concerned agencies to further improve public service. – Angela Celis
