The Bureau of Customs (BOC) – Port of Davao, with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) – World Container Control Program (CCP), launched the new Port Control Office on November 23-25.

The activity is in line with the 8-point economic agenda of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to uphold public order and safety, peace and security, and Customs Commissioner Yogi Filemon Ruiz’s directive to prevent smuggling and maintain zero tolerance for illegal drug importation.

The Container Control Program aims to strengthen the capacities of national agencies responsible for security at ports and airports.

It seeks to improve risk management, supply chain security, and trade facilitation and prevent the cross-border movement of illicit goods.

The CCP is operational in over 70 member states and equipped to exchange information with counterparts in other countries, which provides access to information, allowing users to share information about high-risk containers and verify their identification numbers.

Furthermore, there was a thorough discussion regarding the technical needs assessment that will serve as a basis for UN support, such as equipment and the overview of required program activities.

The event was attended by the regional head of the CCP, together with representatives from the Davao Customs Office, Risk Management Office, Philippine Ports Authority, Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency, Philippine National Police Maritime Group, Major Shipping Lines, Chamber of Customs Brokers Inc and the Davao International Container Terminal Inc.

The BOC Davao, through the leadership of District Collector lawyer Erastus Sandino B. Austria, will continue its intensified coordination with partner enforcement agencies to protect its areas of responsibility. #