People's Headline News

15/10/2025

*BOC Shares Progress on Digitalization and Stakeholder Engagement in Meeting with EU-ASEAN Business Council*

The Bureau of Customs (BOC) participated in a courtesy meeting with the EU-ASEAN Business Council, the European Chamber of Commerce, and their member organizations to discuss trade and customs-related concerns. The meeting was presided over by Department of Finance (DOF) Undersecretary Charlito Martin R. Mendoza and included other finance-attached agencies. Discussions focused on improving customs procedures and preparing for the Philippines’ ASEAN chairmanship in 2026.

During his opening statement, Undersecretary Mendoza expressed optimism about the dialogue ahead. “We look to you to support our human and technical capacity between efforts by sharing global best practices, leveraging your industry expertise, and helping us upskill our current workforce, and develop the next generation of Filipino innovators,” he said.

BOC Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno assured business leaders that the agency is committed to listening and responding to their concerns. “We understand the need for faster, clearer, and more consistent processes. That’s what we are working to deliver,” he said.

Since assuming office in July 2025, Commissioner Nepomuceno has focused on strengthening enforcement against smuggling, especially for high-risk goods like to***co. These efforts aim to protect government revenue and support fair competition for legitimate businesses.

The BOC also shared updates on its digitalization efforts. The Customs Processing System (CPS) is being developed to simplify import and export procedures, reduce costs, and limit manual handling. The agency is working closely with other government offices and the private sector to ensure that new systems like pre-border technical verification and electronic invoicing are practical and responsive to business needs.

Businesses were also encouraged to join the Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) Program, which offers benefits to companies that consistently follow customs rules and maintain high standards.

Commissioner Nepomuceno explained that the push for full digitalization goes beyond improving revenue collection. "The main goals for the full digitalization are not only focused on ensuring that the proper revenues will be collected — of course, that's the most important and immediate impact of achieving full digitalization — but we know that smuggling goes further,” he said.
He added that addressing smuggling will have a domino effect, improving investor confidence and promoting fair competition by preventing smugglers from exploiting gaps in the system.

He further noted, “Aside from again — collections will be increasing, then there will be efficiency in these processes, but most important will be the macroeconomic impact of being able to control smuggling,”

The meeting concluded with a shared commitment between the BOC and the DOF, along with other government agencies, to work hand-in-hand in advancing trade facilitation and customs modernization. By aligning policy direction with operational reforms, the DOF and the BOC aim to build a customs environment that is transparent, efficient, and responsive to the evolving needs of the business community and the broader economy.

14/10/2025

Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno, malinis ang hangarin sa Customs

Si Customs.Commissioner ay isang mabuting tao na napili ng Pangulo BBM upang ayusin ang mga problema sa Customs.

Ang hangarin ng masipag na Commissioner ay ibalik ang magamdang imahe ng Bureau of Customs.

Kaya naman lahat ay sinusuri ang mga bagay tulad ng pag-import at pag-export ng mga kalakal.

Mayroong isang ulat mula sa US na nagsasabing ang Customs ay napaka corrupt, ngunit si Commissioner Nepomuceno ay hindi nag-aalala tungkol doon dahil malinis.ang kanyang pagkatao at pinili siya bilang Head ng ahensya upang mapabuti ang takbo ng Aduana.

Dahil sa kanyang magandang reporma ay naramdaman ng mga smuggler (mga taong sumusubok na magpalusot ng mga bagay nang walang bayad) ang pagbabago sa BOC, kaya't naglagay siya ng isang mahigpit na 'No Take Policy' upang matigil ang katiwalian at pagdaraya.

Ang ulat ng US nagsabi na ang Customs ang pinaka-corrupt ay matagal ng issue at hindi pa nakaupo noon si Commissioner Nepomuceno, ngunit kung minsan ang mga ulat ay maaaring mali o mapanlinlang.

Sinusubukan ni Commissioner Nepumuceno na gawin ang tama ang lahat dahil ang layunin niya ay linisin ang Customs, gawing tapat ito at ibalik ang tiwala ng publiko at tulungan ang lahat na magtiwala muli sa lahat ng empleyado sa Aduana.

10/10/2025

*BOC-NAIA Intercepts ₱109.8 Million Worth of Shabu Concealed in Shipments from Vietnam*

In line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to intensify border protection and bolster the national government’s anti-drug campaign, the Bureau of Customs – Ninoy Aquino International Airport (BOC-NAIA), in coordination with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) and the NAIA Inter-Agency Drug Interdiction Task Group (NAIA-IADITG), intercepted shipments containing 16,150 grams of methamphetamine hydrochloride, locally known as shabu, with an estimated standard value of ₱109,820,000.00, at the Paircargo Warehouse, Pasay City, on October 6, 2025.

The shipments, declared as e-commerce consolidated packages, arrived from Hanoi, Vietnam. Following the detection of suspicious images during x-ray screening, a 100 percent physical examination was conducted, which led to the discovery of three (3) styrofoam boxes containing twenty-six (26) packages of white crystalline substances concealed alongside packs of coffee powder. Field testing conducted by CAIDTF and PDEA yielded positive results for methamphetamine hydrochloride.

The seized illegal drugs were turned over to PDEA for proper disposition and further investigation. The two representatives of the consignee logistics company were arrested on-site in violation of Republic Act No. 9165 (Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002). The case also constitutes violations of Republic Act No. 10863 (Customs Modernization and Tariff Act), particularly Section 1400 (Misdeclaration), Section 1401 (Unlawful Importation and Exportation), and Section 117 (Regulated Importation and Exportation).

BOC Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno praised the swift action of the personnel involved, stating, “This interception highlights the Bureau’s vigilance and dedication to preventing drug syndicates from using legitimate trade channels for illicit operations. Our commitment to border protection remains steadfast and uncompromising.”

District Collector Alexandra Y. Lumontad likewise noted, “The success of this operation demonstrates the effectiveness of intelligence-driven profiling and inter-agency coordination. BOC-NAIA will continue to uphold its mandate to ensure that our airports remain secure against any form of smuggling or illegal drug activity.”

This major interdiction reaffirms the BOC’s unwavering commitment to enforce customs and anti-drug laws, protect public safety, and support the national government’s ongoing campaign against the proliferation of illegal drugs. #

09/10/2025

*New BOC Leadership Has Tackled Corruption Ahead of U.S. Report*

The Bureau of Customs (BOC) acknowledges the concerns raised in the 2025 U.S. State Department Investment Climate Statements report, which identified bribery and corruption as barriers to investment in the Philippines. However, even prior to the release of this report, the BOC, under the new leadership of Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno, had already initiated institutional reforms to address these issues within his first 100 days in office.

Among the key anti-corruption reforms implemented early in his tenure are the issuance of a strict “No Take” policy prohibiting any form of bribery or unlawful monetary transactions within the BOC. This directive is enforced across all levels of the agency, with violations subject to immediate disciplinary action and full cooperation with law enforcement authorities.

In a landmark move to eliminate conflicts of interest, the Commissioner issued a memorandum on July 10, 2025, banning all BOC officials and employees from holding any business or financial interest in Customs Brokerage operations. Personnel are also required to disclose familial ties to brokerage firms, ensuring impartiality and transparency in customs transactions.

To further strengthen internal oversight, Commissioner Nepomuceno mandated enhanced disclosure requirements, compelling all BOC personnel to submit affidavits detailing any connections to customs-related businesses, including past associations. These measures are designed to prevent hidden conflicts of interest and reinforce public trust in the Bureau’s operations.

In response to mounting complaints from stakeholders regarding overly intrusive audits and enforcement activities, Commissioner Nepomuceno ordered the suspension of unserved Letters of Authority (LOA) and Mission Orders (MO). This temporary halt allows the BOC to conduct a comprehensive review of its enforcement protocols to ensure that legitimate businesses are not subjected to undue disruption while maintaining the integrity of customs operations. The review aims to recalibrate procedures to be more targeted, risk-based, and respectful of due process.

Commissioner Nepomuceno has also prioritized collaboration with international partners and foreign business chambers to ensure that investors are treated fairly and professionally when engaging with the BOC. As part of this commitment, the Bureau will maintain and strengthen the Customs Industry and Advisory Council (CICAC), which serves as a formal mechanism for engagement between the BOC and key stakeholders in trade, logistics, and foreign investment. Through CICAC, the Bureau aims to institutionalize regular consultations, promote policy transparency, and co-develop solutions that enhance customs efficiency while safeguarding the interests of legitimate businesses.

“The reforms we introduced within my first 100 days were not reactionary. They were proactive measures rooted in our commitment to clean governance. These measures directly respond to the very issues highlighted in the U.S. State Department report, and we will continue pushing forward with both short and long-term solutions,” said Commissioner Nepomuceno.

The BOC recognizes that meaningful transformation will take time. While these initial reforms are critical short-term solutions to restore trust and accountability, the long-term strategy centers on full digitalization and automation of customs processes. By reducing human discretion and streamlining transactions, the BOC aims to eliminate systemic vulnerabilities and build a customs administration that is modern, efficient, and corruption-resistant.

Commissioner Nepomuceno emphasized, “We are fully committed to transforming the Bureau of Customs into a model of integrity and professionalism. Corruption has no place in our agency, and we will continue to pursue reforms that protect investors, promote fair trade, and uphold public trust.”

The Bureau of Customs encourages all stakeholders to report any corrupt practices or irregularities they may encounter. Formal complaints may be submitted via email to [email protected] or directly to the Office of the Commissioner at [email protected]. All reports are treated with strict confidentiality and investigated thoroughly.

Under Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno’s leadership, the Bureau of Customs is committed to building a transparent, professional, and globally trusted customs administration that fosters a competitive and corruption-free investment climate in the Philippines.

08/10/2025

The Port of Limay has once again demonstrated its strong revenue performance by surpassing its emerging collection target for the month of September 2025.

The port has already collected ₱9,621,704,062.31, exceeding its emerging target of ₱8,325,538,490.76. This reflects a positive deviation of ₱1,296,165,571.55 or 15.56%, underscoring the port’s strong and consistent revenue performance.

Aligned with the Bureau of Customs’ reform and revenue strategies, and under the leadership of District Collector Blesilda N. Balagtas, the Port of Limay carries out the directives of Customs Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno, who has pushed for stricter governance policies and digitalization to ensure transparency and efficiency.

The Port of Limay extends its gratitude to all stakeholders, along with the dedicated men and women of the port, for their unwavering support and commitment in achieving this accomplishment.

08/10/2025

On October 1, 2025, members of the Freeport Area of Bataan Investors and Locators Association (FABILA) met with District Collector Blesilda N. Balagtas and Subport Collector Atty. Tomas D. Tagra Jr. at the Subport of Mariveles.

The meeting served as a venue to discuss matters concerning operations and coordination at the subport, with the goal of further strengthening collaboration and efficiency among stakeholders.

07/10/2025

𝐂𝐄𝐑𝐓𝐈𝐅𝐈𝐂𝐀𝐓𝐄 𝐎𝐅 𝐂𝐎𝐌𝐌𝐄𝐍𝐃𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍 - to the Brave Men and Women of the Paircargo Assessment Composite Division in recognition of their exceptional dedidation and commendable performance which led to the exceeding of their monthy collection target for September 2025 (₱2.171 Billion) and posting a surplus of ₱23.323 Million or 1.07%.

06/10/2025

*BOC Extends Aid to Earthquake-Hit Families in Cebu*

To help the victims of the recent earthquake in Cebu, the Bureau of Customs (BOC) turned over abandoned and forfeited goods to the Office of Civil Defense (OCD).

*The donation, which came mostly from the Manila International Container Port (MICP), includes 56 pieces of Rapid Emergency Tents and 1,087 pieces of assorted tents to serve as temporary shelters, 50 units of mobile power supply to provide electricity in affected areas, and one bio-toilet unit to ensure proper sanitation for displaced residents.*

*The donated items were declared abandoned and subsequently forfeited in favor of the government. In line with customs procedures and upon approval, these goods were officially released and turned over to the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) to support its ongoing relief and recovery efforts.*

*Aside from the forfeited items, BOC officials and personnel also donated over 100 sacks of rice to support food assistance efforts.*

BOC Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno, who previously served as Undersecretary of the Department of National Defense and Administrator of the OCD, emphasized the significance of ensuring that government resources are directed to the people in times of crisis.

“In moments like this, every donation can make a difference for our countrymen who have lost their homes and security. Having worked with the OCD in the past, alam ko po firsthand kung gaano kahalaga na mabilis, maayos, at diretso ang tulong sa mga kababayan nating nasalanta," said Commissioner Nepomuceno.

MICP District Collector Rizalino Jose C. Torralba expressed his full support for the initiative, reaffirming the Port’s commitment to utilizing abandoned and forfeited goods for the benefit of the public.

“The Manila International Container Port stands in full support of the BOC’s thrust to transform abandoned goods into opportunities for service. Through this donation, we hope to extend help and bring comfort to our fellow Filipinos in Cebu who are recovering from this calamity,” said Collector Torralba.

The OCD will handle the distribution of the donated items to affected families in Cebu, ensuring that they reach communities most in need. This partnership highlights the coordination of government agencies to maximize resources and deliver timely support during emergencies.

22/09/2025

*BOC Records Strong Enforcement Gains Under Commissioner Nepomuceno, Seized ₱2.390B of Smuggled Goods*

With a relentless drive to protect the nation’s borders, the Bureau of Customs (BOC) confiscated ₱2.390 billion worth of smuggled goods from July to August 2025. Acting on President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to crush smuggling, the agency carried out 128 enforcement operations that stopped illegal drugs, illicit ci******es, and agricultural products, and other unlawful goods from flooding local markets.

Within two (2) months of Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno's leadership, the BOC intercepted ₱1.230 billion worth of illegal drugs, ₱929 million worth of illicit ci******es, to***co, and v**e, and ₱178 million worth of agricultural products among other smuggled goods.

The campaign against illegal drugs gained ground through the BOC’s close coordination with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), the Inter-Agency Drug Interdiction Task Group, and other law enforcement counterparts. On July 17, 2025, Commissioner Nepomuceno led the inspection of a shipment at the Manila International Container Port (MICP) that yielded 110.24 kilograms of shabu worth ₱749.63 million — one of the largest drug seizures for the year.

Another significant operation was conducted on 22 August 2025 in a warehouse raid in Plaridel, Bulacan where operatives discovered ₱605.29 million worth of smuggled ci******es. This marked the largest cigarette-related interception of 2025 to date, conveying a clear warning to those who attempt to abuse our borders for unlawful activities.

Cracking down on the smuggling of agricultural products remained one of the agency’s top priorities. Through the active coordination with the Department of Agriculture (DA), the BOC seized over ₱178 million worth of fishery goods, onions, carrots, poultry, and sugar from July to August, underscoring its efforts to protect local farmers and consumers. These operations were conducted in line with R.A. 12022, or the Anti-Agricultural Economic Sabotage Act, which classifies large-scale smuggling of farm goods as economic sabotage.

Complementing these enforcement gains, Commissioner Nepomuceno also introduced key policy measures to strengthen the BOC’s fight against smuggling and corruption. On July 2, 2025, he issued his first directive suspending all previously approved but unserved Letters of Authority (LOAs) and Mission Orders (MOs) to restore discipline in field operations and prevent unauthorized enforcement activities. This was followed on July 17, 2025, by a historic memorandum prohibiting all BOC officials, employees, and personnel from holding any financial interest in Customs Brokerage operations.

“These results, along with our steadfast commitment to instituting meaningful reforms, stand as strong evidence of our determination to combat smuggling in all its forms. I commend the dedication of the BOC's Intelligence and Enforcement Group as well as our District Offices nationwide, whose tireless efforts form the backbone of these successful operations," stated by the Commissioner.

Building on this momentum, the BOC will sustain its enforcement drive, anchored on reforms that strengthen integrity and accountability, ultimately safeguarding the nation’s borders and the welfare of Filipinos.

20/09/2025

20/09/2025

The Bureau of Customs (BOC) has assumed the chairmanship of the Brunei Darussalam–Indonesia–Malaysia–Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area (BIMPEAGA) Trade Facilitation Cluster during its third meeting in August 2025 in Jakarta, Indonesia.

The Trade Facilitation Cluster plays a key role in driving the subregion’s economic growth and strengthening collaboration among Customs, Immigration, Quarantine, and Security agencies. Representing the Philippines, Mr. Mark C. Quiñones formally assumed the chairmanship, succeeding Datuk Noor Alam Khan bin A. Wahid Khan of Malaysia’s Prime Minister’s Department. He was joined by Ms. Socorro D. Bantillan as part of the BOC delegation.

In his handover speech, Mr. Quiñones expressed gratitude for the opportunity to lead the Cluster, pledging to keep discussions focused, inclusive, and action-oriented. “Through this Chairmanship, the Philippines will work with you to ensure that the Trade Facilitation Cluster continues to advance our long-term aspirations under the BIMP-EAGA Vision 2035,” he said.

Under Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno’s leadership, the BOC remains committed to enhancing connectivity, streamlining cross-border processes, and ensuring that trade facilitation serves as a true driver of regional growth and development.

18/09/2025

𝐂𝐎𝐔𝐑𝐓𝐄𝐒𝐘 𝐕𝐈𝐒𝐈𝐓 - Official delegation from the UNITED STATES EMBASSY headed by SECOND SECRETARY LAUREN E. BRAUER visited the PAIR CARGO ASSESSMENT COMPOSITE UNIT at the Port of NAIA , and extended to Special Deputy Collector DR SIEGFRED L MANAOIS their appreciation for the invaluable assistance to the Embassy (Manila) in relation to the consistent expeditious release of their shipments that greatly contributed to the attainment of the Mission's objectives. - Dr Manaois and his team extended thier gratitude for the acknowledgement and further explained that the Enhanced Trade Facilitation in the PORT OF NAIA is one of the Flagship Programs of COMMISSIONER ARIEL F NEPOMUCENO and implemented under the guidance and supervision of DISTRICT COLLECTOR ALEXANDRA Y. LOMUNTAD.