In a proactive move to bolster national security and streamline the movement of vital goods, key officials from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) and the Office for Transportation Security (OTS) met on Thursday, January 22, 2026, to formalize a collaborative framework for secure cargo operations.
BSP Security Services Department Director Alvin Parreño led the delegation for a courtesy visit to OTS Administrator Undersecretary Gilberto DC Cruz at the OTS Main Office. The meeting serves as a direct response to President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s directive to enhance interagency cooperation and ensure the seamless, secure transport of essential commodities across the country.
The primary focus of the high-level discussion was the optimization of operational flows for BSP cargo shipments. By aligning the specialized security protocols of the OTS with the logistics requirements of the BSP, both agencies aim to eliminate bottlenecks and mitigate risks during the transit of high-value assets. “Strengthening our relationship with the OTS is a vital step in ensuring that our national interests remain protected,” said Director Parreño. “This collaboration allows us to leverage mutual expertise to create a more resilient and efficient transport security environment.”
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Operational Coordination: Establishing dedicated communication channels to support BSP cargo shipments.
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Policy Alignment: Exploring future opportunities for shared transportation security objectives.
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Resource Integration: Leveraging the Electronic Security Support and Incident Management teams to enhance real-time oversight.
The meeting brought together technical experts from both agencies to ensure a comprehensive approach to the partnership. Joining Director Parreño from the BSP were:
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Ricardo Petrola, Deputy Director, Incident Management Team Operation Center
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Rod Espina, Deputy Director, Electronic Security Support Group
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Paul Vincent Chan, Manager
Representing the OTS alongside Undersecretary Cruz were:
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Director Reginald Rapanan, Transport Security Oversight and Compliance Service
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Director Ruben Fajardo Jr., Transport Security Policy and Program Service
This engagement marks the beginning of a long-term commitment to shared security goals, ensuring that the Philippine transport sector remains a secure backbone for economic stability.
