By Lane Afable, News Editor
Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff General Romeo S. Brawner Jr. reaffirmed the military’s strong support for the Bureau of Customs’ (BOC) intensified anti-smuggling and border protection efforts as he underscored the critical role of Customs frontliners in protecting the country against security threats, including smuggling, illegal trafficking, and transnational crimes, during the graduation ceremony of the 29-member Customs Police Rapid Intervention Group (CPRIG) Special Operations Training (SOT).
General Brawner commended the trainers from the AFP Special Forces Regiment and other partner units for helping strengthen the operational readiness and capabilities of Customs enforcement personnel, while emphasizing the importance of continuous inter-agency cooperation, integrity, discipline, and accountability in maintaining secure borders. He likewise lauded the graduates for completing the rigorous four-month specialized training program.
“Our nation is facing evolving security challenges. Issues such as smuggling, illegal trafficking, transnational crimes, and other threats undermine not only economic stability, but also public safety and national security. Every threat intercepted, every successful operation, and every crime prevented contributes to the stability and security of our nation. We wear this uniform to serve our fellow countrymen with honor, discipline, and integrity,” General Brawner stressed.
BOC Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno expressed gratitude to the AFP and General Brawner for their continued support and partnership in enhancing the operational readiness and professionalism of Customs enforcement personnel.
“The Bureau of Customs deeply values the steadfast support of the Armed Forces of the Philippines in our intensified fight against smuggling and other transnational crimes. Through strong inter-agency cooperation, intelligence sharing, and operational coordination, we are strengthening our collective ability to protect the country’s borders, safeguard legitimate trade, and ensure the safety and security of the Filipino people,” Commissioner Nepomuceno said.
General Brawner likewise reaffirmed the AFP’s commitment to continue supporting the Bureau of Customs through specialized training, operational cooperation, and capability-building initiatives aimed at enhancing border security and addressing evolving national security threats.
The partnership among the BOC, AFP, and the Philippine Navy reflects the government’s whole-of-nation approach to strengthening border security and combating smuggling in line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directives.
The BOC reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining strong inter-agency cooperation and continuously enhancing its enforcement and border protection capabilities to safeguard the country’s economy and national security.
