THE Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) and the Bureau of Customs (BoC) vowed to strengthen their partnership in the intensified campaign against illegal drug trafficking in the country.
PDEA Director General Aaron Aquino and newly installed Customs Commissioner Rey Leonardo Guerrero met and discussed the close coordination of the two agencies in the national anti-drug campaign.
“PDEA, as the lead agency in the national anti-drug campaign, continue to strengthen its relationship with its partners and counterparts for a more resolute, wide and all-encompassing effort to address the drug problem which is one of the most serious problems facing our country today,” Aquino said.
According to Aquino, the BoC has a vital role in preventing the smuggling of illegal drugs with its vast experience in identifying and tracking suspected shipments.
During the meeting, the two leaders agreed to sign an amended Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) to strengthen the cooperation between PDEA and BoC to effectively address the trafficking or possible entry of drug contrabands, including the importation of Controlled Precursors and Essential Chemicals (CPECs).
In the agreement, both agencies will conduct workshops for both PDEA and BoC personnel, work plan schedules, and regular inspections of goods at the Customs. (Alexandria San Juan)
