By Ferdinand Patinio
MANILA – The Bureau of Customs (BOC) on Tuesday reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with other government agencies in the fight against smuggling, particularly through information sharing and improved coordination.
In a statement, the BOC recognized the vital role of information sharing in ensuring effective enforcement and successful prosecution of smuggling cases.
It said close coordination among government agencies and timely access to relevant records and data are crucial in pursuing offenders.
“Under the leadership of Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno, the BOC remains committed to working closely with the Office of the Ombudsman, Department of Justice, and other partner agencies,” it said.
“The Bureau continuously supports lawful requests for information and is strengthening its systems and processes to further improve cooperation and data sharing, in accordance with existing laws and regulations,” the BOC added.
The bureau also reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, cooperation and a whole-of-government approach in addressing smuggling.
The statement came amid remarks by Ombudsman Jesus Crispin “Boying” Remulla regarding the alleged lack of cooperation and data sharing by the BOC in connection with the government’s campaign against smuggling.
Remulla said the lack of information from the bureau affects the investigation and prosecution of smuggling cases
