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The Bureau of Customs and the Armed Forces of the Philippines signed a Memorandum of Understanding to strengthen border security and customs enforcement by enhancing intelligence sharing and coordinating operations
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Agreement strengthens border security through intelligence sharing and coordinated operations, such as anti-smuggling
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MOU formalizes cooperation on information sharing, operational support, capacity building, legal coordination, and revenue protection
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BOC retains primary authority on customs enforcement, with AFP serving as a supporting agency
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A Joint Coordination Committee will oversee implementation and establish secure coordination mechanisms
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Proposed Joint Trade-Security Validation Cells will analyze intelligence on smuggling, strategic goods diversion, and other trade-security threats
The Bureau of Customs (BOC) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to strengthen border security and customs enforcement by enhancing intelligence sharing and coordinating operations.
The agreement, signed on July 15 by Customs commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno and then AFP chief of staff Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr., establishes a formal framework for cooperation to “ensure lawful, secure, and accountable coordination” between the two agencies.
The MOU covers information sharing, capacity building, operational support, and legal cooperation on matters involving border security, customs enforcement, national security, and revenue protection. It also recognizes the BOC’s primary authority over customs enforcement while defining the AFP’s role as a supporting agency.
Nepomuceno said the partnership reinforces the government’s efforts to strengthen border protection through closer inter-agency cooperation.
“Smuggling is not only an economic crime — it is also a national security concern. This partnership with the Armed Forces of the Philippines strengthens our ability to protect our borders, disrupt smuggling networks, and safeguard government revenue. Our fight becomes stronger when government agencies work together,” Nepomuceno said in mixed English and Filipino
Brawner, who officially retired and stepped down from the AFP top post on July 21, said securing the country’s borders is a shared national responsibility and described the agreement as a demonstration of the government’s unified commitment to protecting national security, facilitating legitimate trade, and advancing the country’s broader economic interests.
Under the agreement, the two agencies will establish a Joint Coordination Committee to serve as the primary policy and oversight body for implementing the MOU. The committee will oversee the establishment of secure coordination channels and approve priority information requirements and coordination procedures.
Subject to the approval of the appropriate authorities, the partnership also provides for the creation of Joint Trade-Security Validation Cells to analyze, validate, and coordinate intelligence on smuggling, strategic goods diversion, foreign-linked entities, and other trade-security threats.
READ: BOC, PDEA ink MOA to strengthen anti-drug border enforcement
