US gov’t gives radiation detection equipment to PH’s Bureau of Customs

Photo from BOC

MANILA, Philippines — The United States government has donated radiation detection equipment to the Bureau of Customs (BOC) to boost the Philippines’ capability to prevent the entry of radioactive materials that can be used in making nuclear weapons.

According to BOC, the US Department of Energy Nuclear Smuggling Detection and Deterrence donated on Monday four radioisotope identification device radseeker CS and two radiation pagers.

The BOC said the equipment will support the detection operations of the Megaports Radiation Detection System installed at selected ports, such as the Port of Manila, Manila International Container Port, and Port of Cebu.

“The equipment shall complement the existing border security equipment and programs of the Bureau specifically in the detection of radiological and nuclear materials,” the bureau said in a statement Tuesday.

“The donations are expected to enhance the Philippines’ capability in monitoring and protecting the country’s border against the entry of radioactive materials that could be used in making nuclear weapons,” it added.

BOC Commissioner Rey Leonardo Guerrero thanked the US government for the logistical support it extended to the bureau in order to improve its trade control systems and border security measures.

KGA