BOC, PCG Ink MOA for Strengthened Joint Anti-Smuggling Operations

The chiefs of the Bureau of Customs (BoC) and the Philippine Coast (PCG), on Monday, October 15 signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA) which provides them guidelines in the conduct of anti-smuggling joint operations within the country’s borders.

The signing of the MOA took place at the PCG headquarters and was led by BOC Commissioner Isidro Lapena and PCG Commandant Elson Hermogino, witnessed by Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez.

As indicated in the MOA, the PCG has agreed the use of three (3) of its fast patrol vessels (FPV) to conduct joint operations in the enforcement of laws pertaining to border control and prevention of the entry of smuggled goods, prevention and suppression of smuggling and other customs fraud.

The PCG has four (4) fast patrol vessels which are primarily used to enhance PCG’s capability during disaster response and relief operations, enforcing maritime laws, monitoring wharves, and ports.

In the spirit of inter-agency coordination and cooperation, the parties shall operate, navigate, and perform law enforcement functions onboard the three (3) fast patrol vessels.

Under the said MOA, the BOC has agreed to closely coordinate with PCG in the operation of the Fast Patrol Vessel (FPV) that will be used in customs operations. The BOC, as stated in the agreement, shall be responsible for the issuance of Sailing Orders upon the need of the agency’s law enforcement operations.

Four (4) Customs Officers and one (1) Customs Police Officer with a rank not lower than Special Police Lieutenant will be assigned onboard the FPV during BOC-led and joint agency related operations.

The BOC, together with the PCG, is authorized by law to board, inspect, search and examine a vessel and all types of merchant ships and water crafts and any container, trunk, package, box or envelope found on board and physically search and examine any person thereon within the Philippine Customs territory and maritime jurisdiction in the performance of their functions. (BOC)