The Port of Iloilo is using better technology to make borders safer and trade easier. They got a new and improved mobile X-ray system or machine for port security that helps them check goods more effectively and stop illegal items from being smuggled in with legal cargo.
With the rise of transnational smuggling networks, customs authorities worldwide are under increased pressure to enhance detection capabilities while ensuring efficiency in cargo processing. The integration of AI-powered imaging, combined with radiation monitoring in Iloilo’s new X-ray system, ensures that the port remains secure, compliant, and competitive.
Enhanced Inspection Capabilities with Mobile X-Ray System
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The new mobile X-ray machine introduces several state-of-the-art features:
Dual Scanning Modes
The system supports both manual and pass-through scanning, providing flexibility in handling different types of cargo.
Advanced Imaging Technology
It boasts enhanced organic and inorganic imaging capabilities, enabling more accurate identification of contraband and prohibited items.
Radiation Monitoring System
The built-in radiation monitoring ensures that the equipment operates within safe parameters, protecting both operators and the environment.
These features collectively contribute to faster and more accurate inspections, thereby strengthening the port’s security measures.
Commitment to Modernization in Port of Iloilo
Ciriaco Ugay, the district collector, highlighted the port’s commitment to ongoing development, saying that modernizing infrastructure is essential for protecting Western Visayas’ boundaries, enabling legal trade, and obtaining legal taxes. The following five BOC priority programs for 2025 are in line with this initiative:
Digitalization
Implementing advanced technologies to streamline customs processes.
Trade Facilitation
Enhancing procedures to support efficient and effective trade operations.
Curbing Smuggling
Strengthening measures to detect and prevent illegal importation of goods.
Surpassing Revenue Targets
Aiming to exceed financial goals through improved collection methods.
Enhancing Employee Welfare and Conduct
Focusing on the well-being and professionalism of customs personnel.
The integration of the upgraded X-ray machine is a significant step toward achieving these objectives, reflecting the BOC’s proactive approach to embracing technological advancements in customs operations.
Future Prospects in Port Security
The Port of Iloilo customs office plans to upgrade its equipment and ways of working in the future. They want to make the port safer, help legal trade run smoothly, and collect taxes better. By getting new technology and better facilities, the port will be ready to handle the changing demands of international trade and customs duties.
Impact on Trade and Economic Growth of the New X-Ray System
The deployment of cutting-edge scanning technology is expected to have a direct economic impact on Western Visayas. By minimizing manual inspections and increasing automated cargo screening, the new X-ray machine helps:
✅ Expedite cargo clearance, reducing delays and trade bottlenecks.
✅ Enhance transparency, reducing opportunities for corrupt practices.
✅ Improve customs revenue collection, ensuring fair taxation and trade compliance.
✅ Attract more international shipping lines, positioning Iloilo as a key gateway for trade.
According to a World Bank research on customs modernization, trade efficiency has increased by 20–30% in nations that have adopted sophisticated scanning and AI-based detection. By guaranteeing quicker and more precise cargo inspections, the BOC-Port of Iloilo hopes to duplicate this achievement.
Complementary Efforts: Strengthening Enforcement
While the new mobile X-ray machine greatly enhances scanning and detection, it is only one aspect of a broader enforcement strategy. The BOC-Port of Iloilo is also investing in:
📌 Additional personnel training – Customs officers are being trained in image interpretation and contraband identification.
📌 AI-assisted risk profiling – The port is implementing risk-based inspection models to focus on high-risk shipments.
📌 Collaboration with law enforcement – Strengthening partnerships with the Philippine National Police (PNP) and international agencies to combat smuggling networks.
📌 Public-private partnerships – Engaging shipping companies and logistics firms to streamline customs compliance.
Statistical Insights: BOC’s Success in Cargo Inspections
According to BOC data from 2024, the Port of Iloilo recorded:
- Over 1.2 million metric tons of goods processed.
- A 10% increase in legitimate trade volume due to faster inspections.
- Confiscation of smuggled goods worth PHP 150 million in the last year.
With the new X-ray machine in place, these figures are expected to improve further, ensuring a safer and more efficient customs environment.
Integration of Interisland Shipping Companies with Enhanced Customs Operations
The recent acquisition of an upgraded mobile X-ray machine enhances the port’s ability to efficiently inspect cargo from various interisland shipping companies, ensuring the seamless movement of goods while maintaining stringent security measures.
Key Interisland Shipping Companies Operating Through Iloilo Port
Several prominent interisland shipping companies utilize the Port of Iloilo as a critical hub in their logistics network:
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JCS Logistics Corporation: Specializes in end-to-end logistics services, including Full Container Load (FCL), Less Container Load (LCL), cargo consolidation, and customs brokerage. They serve key locations in Visayas and Mindanao, such as Cebu, Davao, Cagayan de Oro, Iloilo, and General Santos City.
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Lorenzo Shipping Corporation: Focuses on transporting goods using containerized cargoes, with a fleet serving major ports in Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, including Manila, Bacolod, Iloilo, Cebu, and Davao. They offer services like door-to-pier, pier-to-door, and door-to-door deliveries.
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Transportify: An on-demand logistics platform that connects cargo owners with trucks, vans, and ships for scheduled deliveries. They have expanded operations to key cities, including Cebu, Iloilo, Bacolod, Bohol, Davao, Cagayan de Oro, and General Santos City.
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Elaiza Trucking Services: Offers interisland shipping services using various types of trucks, such as 10-wheeler wing vans and closed vans. They serve areas including Davao, General Santos, Cebu, Iloilo, Bacolod, Leyte, and Masbate.
The arrival of the new mobile X-ray machine at the Bureau of Customs-Port of Iloilo marks a significant milestone in customs modernization. This development is not just about improving security—it’s about enhancing trade efficiency, protecting revenue streams, and strengthening enforcement against illicit trade.
As Iloilo positions itself as a key trade hub in the Visayas, these advancements will help ensure a future of seamless trade, stronger border control, and greater economic growth.
