At the 35th ASEAN Customs Enforcement and Compliance Working Group (CECWG) meeting held in Jakarta from February 20 to 22, 2024, the Philippine Bureau of Customs (BOC) led the discussions on the 1st Joint Customs Control (JCC) Operation. PH Customs shared a detailed report on Post Clearance Audit Cases, highlighting the seizure of shipments with harmful environmental products. The operation took place from November 13, 2023, to January 24, 2024, specifically targeting issues related to cigarettes, e-cigarettes, and dried tobacco leaves.
The CECWG serves as a platform for participants to exchange information regarding suspected illicit tobacco trade among concerned states. This facilitated enhanced intelligence sharing within the ASEAN region, aiming to fortify the security efficiency of the respective nations.

Building on the insights gained from the JCC operation, the BOC as lead , enjoined the member states to continue to bolster inter-agency cooperation, streamline border management processes, and effectively mitigate the risks associated with illicit trade activities.

Chaired by Chairperson Mohammad Furiman, Director of the Royal Malaysian Customs Department (RMCD), the meeting saw active participation from various stakeholders including Special Agent II Anthony B. Escandor from the Enforcement Group of the Philippines Bureau of Customs, representatives from ASEAN Member States (AMS), Dialogue Partners, and the ASEAN Secretariat.

Discussions during the meeting also covered diverse topics under the purview of the CECWG, including updates on the Strategic Plans of Customs Development pertaining to Post Clearance Audit, Customs Enforcement and Mutual Assistance, and Public Security and Protection of the Society. The agenda also included deliberations on the Work Plans and Priorities of the working group, with a focus on enhancing consultations with Dialogue Partners.

The BOC’s active participation in the 35th Regular Meeting of the ASEAN-CECWG, coupled with the comprehensive report on the 1st JCC, manifests the bureau’s commitment to strengthening regional cooperation, enhancing border security management processes, and effective mitigation of the risks associated with illicit trade activities.#