In a significant stride toward enhancing border control and ensuring national security, the Bureau of Customs (BOC), under the leadership of Commissioner Bienvenido Y. Rubio, has reported remarkable accomplishments through its X-ray Inspection Project (XIP). As a crucial division operating within the Bureau’s Intelligence Group, headed by Deputy Commissioner Juvymax Uy, the XIP has consistently demonstrated its commitment in safeguarding the nation through diligent monitoring and non-intrusive inspection of shipments entering ports nationwide.
The Bureau’s relentless efforts have resulted in deterring and interdicting numerous smuggling attempts that led to the impressive seizure of illegal drugs worth more than P1.161 billion from January to August 2023.
At the forefront of this resounding success are the 107 active x-ray machines of various types strategically deployed across multiple ports, sub-ports, and airports throughout the country. Utilization of these machines have played a pivotal role in identifying hidden contraband within shipments without the need for invasive searches, facilitating both efficient trade processes and robust security measures.
In the past two weeks, XIP has successfully foiled over P18.5 million worth of illegal drugs and intercepted misdeclared goods in several ports.
Furthermore, the Unit advocates real-time information exchange among all ports to thwart smuggling attempts, offering full support for the “Remote Image Analysis Center (RIAC) Project,” a pivotal step in modernizing and enhancing the efficiency of the Bureau of Customs’ border protection.
With a well-defined strategy for the XIP that centers on bolstering border control and enhancing national security, leveraging technology and automation, functions of the XIP offices shall be fully optimized.
As the Bureau of Customs continues its unwavering pursuit of excellence, the X-ray Inspection Project, under the leadership of Collector Carmelita Talusan and with the steadfast support and guidance of Commissioner Rubio and Deputy Commissioner Uy, stands as a testament to the organization’s commitment to innovation, vigilance, and the highest standards of service.#
