The Bureau of Customs (BOC) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) formalized a strategic partnership through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to strengthen border security and customs enforcement through enhanced intelligence sharing and coordinated operations.
The MOU, signed today, July 15, 2026 by BOC Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno and AFP Chief of Staff Gen. Romeo S. Brawner Jr., establishes a formal framework for cooperation to ensure lawful, secure, and accountable coordination between the two agencies. The agreement covers information sharing, capacity building, operational support, and legal cooperation on matters involving border security, customs enforcement, national security, and revenue protection, while recognizing the BOC’s primary authority and defining the AFP’s role as a supporting agency.
Commissioner Nepomuceno emphasized that the partnership reinforces the government’s commitment to safeguarding the country’s borders through stronger inter-agency cooperation.
“Smuggling is not only an economic crime—it is also a national security concern. This partnership with the Armed Forces of the Philippines strengthens our ability to protect our borders, disrupt smuggling networks, and safeguard government revenue. Mas matibay ang laban natin kapag sama-sama ang mga ahensya ng pamahalaan. Together, we will uphold the law with integrity and decisive action,” said Commissioner Nepomuceno.
Under the agreement, the BOC and AFP will establish a Joint Coordination Committee (JCC) to serve as the primary policy and oversight body for the implementation of the MOU. The JCC will be responsible for establishing secure coordination channels and approving priority information requirements and coordination procedures, among other functions. Subject to the approval of appropriate authorities, the partnership will likewise create Joint Trade-Security Validation Cells to support the analysis, validation, and coordination of intelligence and security information related to smuggling, strategic goods diversion, foreign-linked entities, and other trade-security threats.
Gen. Romeo S. Brawner, Jr. likewise emphasized that protecting the country’s borders is a shared national responsibility. He welcomed the partnership as a testament to the government’s unified commitment to safeguarding national security, protecting legitimate trade, and advancing the country’s broader economic interests.
The partnership reflects the shared commitment of the BOC and the AFP to support President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to strengthen border security, suppress all forms of smuggling, and enhance inter-agency collaboration in protecting the country’s economic and national security.
