Philippine Bureau of Customs forms specialised CBRNE response team
The Philippine Bureau of Customs is creating a team that will act as first responders during CBRNE incidents within customs jurisdiction and territory.
According to information published on Port Calls, the Customs Memorandum Order No. 14-2026 institutionalises the CBRNE Response Team, consisting of personnel from the Bureau of Customs’ Enforcement and Security Service, and Medical and Dental Division. More specifically, the order establishing the response team aims to implement guidelines and procedures "to address the pressing concerns on CBRNE incidents in our borders and/or ports of entry".
The creation of the response team is in line with Republic Act No. 11479, or the Anti-Terrorism Act, and the country’s CBRN national action plan, which offers a unified approach to building the capacity of the Philippines to counteract the risks associated with CBRN materials whether it is of natural, accidental or intentional/criminal origin.
CMO No. 14-2026 will cover all types of importations such as consumption, transit, warehousing, transshipment, and exports within customs territories and free zones. The response team will also serve as officer on case, point person or supervisor on CBRNE matters, concerns, or incidents; and should investigate cases involving CBRNE incidents, matters and concerns.
