Manila: The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has stressed the importance of inter-agency collaboration to bolster government efforts against smuggling activities in Negros Oriental. Commodore Christopher Auro, head of the Coast Guard District Southern Visayas, highlighted the need for cooperation among various agencies to curb smuggling in the province.

According to Philippines News Agency, Commodore Auro mentioned that working together is crucial to effectively combat unlawful smuggling activities. “We are confident that by supporting one another, we can combat these unlawful actions,” Auro stated. The PCG is actively enhancing collaboration through meetings and courtesy visits to address operational and intelligence matters, aiming for a unified source of information.

This initiative comes on the heels of a recent operation where about PHP24 million worth of smuggled cigarettes were seized in Barangay Nagbo-alao in Basay, Negros Oriental. The operation was led by Aurelio Bodo, chief of the Special Operations Team of the Highway Patrol Group (HPG) – Negros Oriental. Bodo noted that persons of interest from Mindanao are under surveillance, as the contraband was transported into the province via motorboats.

While the Coast Guard conducts regular maritime patrols, Auro acknowledged the need to enhance nighttime operational capabilities. He urged local communities to assist law enforcement by providing information on smuggling activities, which may involve not only cigarettes but also illegal drugs, firearms, and other contraband.

Additionally, Auro expressed the Coast Guard’s intent to collaborate with Bantay Dagat and fisherfolk for improved security patrols, seeking to create a robust network against smuggling in the region.