The Bureau of Customs (BOC) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Wednesday formalized a partnership to strengthen border security and intensify the fight against smuggling through enhanced intelligence sharing and coordinated operations.

Customs Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno and AFP Chief of Staff Gen. Romeo S. Brawner Jr. signed a memorandum of understanding establishing a framework for cooperation on border security, customs enforcement, national security, and revenue protection.

The agreement provides for information sharing, capacity building, operational support, and legal cooperation while recognizing the BOC's primary authority over customs matters and defining the AFP's role as a supporting agency.

Nepomuceno said the partnership reinforces the government's commitment to protecting the country's borders through stronger inter-agency coordination.

"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," he said.

Under the agreement, the two agencies will establish a Joint Coordination Committee to oversee the implementation of the partnership, establish secure coordination channels, and approve priority intelligence requirements and operational procedures.

Subject to the approval of the appropriate authorities, the BOC and AFP will also create Joint Trade-Security Validation Cells to analyze and validate intelligence related to smuggling, strategic goods diversion, foreign-linked entities, and other trade-security threats.

Brawner said safeguarding the country's borders is a shared national responsibility and described the partnership as a demonstration of the government's unified commitment to protecting national security, supporting legitimate trade, and advancing the country's broader economic interests.

The BOC said the agreement supports President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s directive to strengthen border security, suppress all forms of smuggling, and enhance inter-agency cooperation to protect the country's economy and national security.