By Ferdinand Patinio/PNA
MANILA — The Bureau of Customs (BOC) is set to install 50 new X-ray machines in various airports and seaports nationwide this year.
Customs Commissioner Rey Leonardo Guerrero noted that the acquisition of new machines worth more than PHP1.2 billion would strengthen the bureau’s efforts and capabilities against smuggling and other customs fraud, which are among his top priorities.
“We need to immediately install and upgrade our X-ray machines to strengthen vigilance and prevent the entry of smuggled and contraband goods in the Philippines,” Guerrero said in a statement.
In particular, the BOC will acquire 15 fixed baggage X-ray machines, 25 hand-carried baggage X-ray machines, four mobile baggage X-ray machines, and six portal-type X-ray machines.
According to the BOC X-Ray Inspection Project, these machines are capable of identifying dense areas and apply the high penetration feature only to the dense area of the shipment.
These can provide a function that automatically detects organic substances with relative atomic numbers one after another or highlighting a region or the system that may display organic substances in orange color.
It is also capable of discriminating between organic and inorganic materials and with Threat Image Projection (TIP), which is capable of automatic projection of threat images to enhance the alertness of the system operators.
The Customs chief also said that the upgrade is significant for the enhancement of the BOC’s non-intrusive inspection of shipments using X-ray machines.
“This measure has helped the BOC intensify its campaign against illicit trade, resulting in the successful apprehension of billion worth of illegal drugs,” he added.
In 2017, the BOC also installed 19 new X-ray units in the three terminals of NAIA, including Davao International Airport, and another seven new hand-carried X-ray units were installed in NAIA terminals in 2018.
About 66 units of X-ray machines are installed and operating in various airports and seaports nationwide.
