THE Bureau of Customs (BOC) Port of Zamboanga under District Collector Atty. Manuel Oliva Zurbito and the Police Regional Office in Region 9 (PRO9) headed by PBGEN. Elmer E. Ragay, committed themselves to “stronger partnership” in the government’s campaign against smuggling covering the Zamboanga Peninsula and nearby areas, including the Sulu Archipelago.
The reiteration of commitment was made by both sides after Collector Zurbito graced the Flag Raising Ceremony of the PRO9 last September 7 inside Camp Colonel Romeo A. Abendan in Mercedes, Zamboanga City, as Guest of Honor and Speaker.
The engagement reflects the directive of Customs Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno to foster close and sustained collaboration with law enforcement agencies, recognizing that effective border protection and anti-smuggling efforts require a unified and coordinated government response, the Port of Zamboanga said in a statement.
“Your organization, the Philippine National Police, has been a very vital and indispensable partner in one of the primary missions of the Bureau of Customs, that is border protection.
“You have been relentless in our effort to implement our anti-smuggling laws, rules, and regulations, and that’s a very significant contribution to our collective pursuit to minimize, if not eradicate, smuggling activities,” Collector Zurbito said.
For his part, RD Ragay reaffirmed his command’s commitment to supporting government efforts against illicit trade and other transnational crimes.
“I am honored to welcome Atty. Manuel Oliva Zurbito, Jr., District Collector of the Bureau of Customs-Port of Zamboanga, to our Flag Raising Ceremony and Awarding Program. His message reaffirmed the value of our PNP-BOC partnership in protecting our communities and stopping illicit trade.
“Rest assured, PRO9 will continue to stand with our partners in this fight across Region 9,” PBGEN. Ragay said.
The program concluded with the recognition of deserving PRO9 personnel for their exemplary service and valuable contributions to law enforcement and public service with Collector Zurbito pinning medals to some of the awardees.