The Bureau of Customs (BOC) reaffirmed its commitment to national and international security by participating in the Mekong Dragon VII Midterm Review Meeting in Kunming, China, in the first week of July. The meeting, which aligns with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to strengthen security coordination, brought together regional enforcement agencies and international partners to review efforts against transnational organized crime and trafficking networks.
The review highlighted the success of joint operations, intelligence-sharing, and capacity-building initiatives under the Mekong Dragon VII program. Participating countries praised successful cross-border operations, particularly those targeting drug trafficking and organized crime syndicates.
Special Police Captain Vincent Mark S. Malasmas, District Commander at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport, represented the BOC. He actively participated in discussions on evolving trafficking tactics and concealment methods and advocated for the adoption of modern technologies such as AI-powered screening tools, 3D scanners, and digital platforms to enhance detection and enforcement capabilities.
The BOC’s participation underscores its vital role in protecting Philippine borders and its dedication to broader regional security efforts. The agency’s involvement also reflects its strong support for President Marcos Jr.’s security agenda and Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno’s commitment to strengthening cooperation with international partners to address transnational threats effectively.
