Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff General Romeo S. Brawner Jr. on Monday urged newly trained Customs Police personnel to lead the fight against smuggling and transnational crimes with integrity, discipline, and professionalism as authorities intensify efforts to secure the country’s ports and borders.
Speaking during the Special Operations Training Graduation Ceremony at the Bureau of Customs grounds in Manila’s Port Area, Brawner emphasized the growing role of the Customs Police Rapid Intervention Group in protecting both national security and the Philippine economy from illegal trade and organized criminal activities.
“Our nation is facing evolving security challenges. Issues such as smuggling, illegal trafficking, transnational crimes, and other threats undermine not only economic stability but also public safety and national security,” Brawner said.
A total of 29 personnel — composed of one officer and 28 non-commissioned officers — completed the specialized training program aimed at strengthening operational readiness, leadership, discipline, and rapid response capabilities against emerging security threats.
“Your work may not always be visible to the public, but it is vital,” Brawner told the graduates.
The AFP chief also reminded the newly trained personnel to remain committed to accountability and ethical public service as they take on frontline roles in anti-smuggling and border security operations.
During the ceremony, Bureau of Customs Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno presented Brawner with a plaque of appreciation in recognition of the AFP’s support for the training initiative.
Meanwhile, retired Police Brigadier General Nolasco K. Bathan, deputy commissioner of the Bureau of Customs Enforcement Group, formally confirmed the graduates of the special operations course.
Authorities said the training program forms part of broader government efforts to strengthen law enforcement capabilities at ports and border entry points amid continuing threats posed by smuggling syndicates and other illegal cross-border activities.