BOC, US Embassy to explore border control cooperation

The Bureau of Customs (BOC) on Tuesday said it is partnering with the US Embassy in Manila to explore possible cooperation on intensifying border control.

In a statement, the BOC said Customs and US Embassy officials held a consultative meeting on May 18.

The meeting was aimed “to explore potential areas of cooperation, intensify border control, and strengthen the relationship between the two agencies.”

The Customs Department said that both agencies discussed cooperation opportunities in law enforcement, maritime operations, investigations, capacity building, and advanced technology implementation.

The US Embassy also expressed intent to extend technical expertise and skills building to the BOC’s Enforcement and Security Service (BOC-ESS).

"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," said Customs Commissioner Bienvenido Rubio.

By collaborating with the US Embassy, the BOC said it aims to achieve excellence in securing and protecting customs authority across the border. —VAL, GMA Integrated News