People's Headline News (2025)

17/07/2025

BOCEA METS THE NEW COMMISSIONER. The newly appointed Customs Commissioner Ariel F Nepomuceno and his team met with the National Executive Council of the Bureau of Customs Employees Association ( BOCEA) headed by National President Atty Simeon C. Caparroso Jr., last July 11, 2025 at South Harbor Manila. The parties agreed for the promotion of the employees general welfare, specifically discussed was the deliveration and release of unit rewards for customs employees for the year 2018 and 2021, pursuant to RA 9335. The parties also agreed in principle, to study, explore and advocate for the creation of a legacy project, the acquisition of a property within NCR to be used for trainings and seminars, including scholarship in customs academy to be established in the said real property, complete with activity center, function rooms and sports center to be funded with the unit reward of the employees under RA 9335. The project will be owned by the employees. The parties further agreed that the unit rewards will never be used for Maintainance and Other Operating Expenses (MOOE) and Capital Outlay expenditures. The Commissioner stated during the discussion his strong commitment to support the BOCEA and clearly manifested that during his term, the system of promotion and hiring shall be strictly based on merits, with specific order of priorities which includes competency and seniority. Other top national BOCEA leaders that joined the meeting includes National Vice President Dr Siegfred L Manaois and VP for Luzon, Mr Rommel Francisco among others.

17/07/2025

*BOC Seizes PHP 749-M Shabu Shipment Hidden in Balikbayan Boxes at MICP*

Demonstrating his firm commitment to enforcement and border security, Bureau of Customs (BOC) Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno led the inspection of a consolidated shipment found to contain illegal drugs at the Manila International Container Port (MICP) on July 17, 2025.

The BOC, acting on credible intelligence, issued an Alert Order on a 1x40-ft container declared as balikbayan boxes. A 100% inspection uncovered 110.24 kg of methamphetamine hydrochloride (shabu) concealed within four (4) boxes, with an estimated value of PHP 749.63 million.

Samples were immediately extracted and submitted to the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) for confirmatory testing. Laboratory results later confirmed that the recovered substances were indeed methamphetamine hydrochloride.

The seized contraband will be turned over to PDEA for further investigation, in relation to violations of Republic Act (RA) No. 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, and R.A. No. 10863, or the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act.

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has consistently underscored the importance of strengthening border protection measures to prevent the entry of illicit drugs into the country. This operation is aligned with the administration’s vision for a secure and safer Philippines, free from the dangers and health risks caused by narcotics.

MICP District Collector Rizalino Jose C. Torralba commended the vigilance and cooperation among enforcement units, noting that the success of this operation reflects the effectiveness of BOC’s strengthened profiling measures and inter-agency coordination.

Commissioner Nepomuceno emphasized that the BOC will remain unyielding in its campaign against drug smuggling, saying: "We will not allow criminal elements to exploit balikbayan privileges and tarnish the trust of our overseas Filipinos. This seizure underscores our commitment to protecting the country and its people."

14/07/2025

*PNP Renews Partnership with BOC in Advancing Good Governance and National Security*

PNP Chief Police General Nicolas D. Torre visited the Bureau of Customs (BOC) today, renewing the Philippine National Police’s (PNP) commitment to support the BOC in its efforts to combat corruption, smuggling, and national security threats. The visit highlights the continued importance of inter-agency collaboration in advancing public service reforms and building public trust in government.

PGEN. Torre, who joined the BOC’s flag-raising ceremony, reaffirmed the PNP’s support for the Bureau’s reform initiatives under Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno. “Being here at your flag-raising ceremony is not just a gesture of respect between our agencies; it is a strong statement of unity,” PGEN. Torre said. He emphasized the PNP’s role in supporting the BOC through intelligence sharing, joint operations, and protecting BOC personnel in the field.

PGEN. Torre also reminded public servants of their duty to lead with integrity and work together to restore the trust of the people. “Sa bawat laban ninyo, kaagapay ninyo ang PNP. Hindi lang ‘to laban ng Customs at hindi lang ‘to laban ng PNP, laban ito ng buong bayan, and the only way we win is if we stay united, focused, and uncompromising in our values,” he added.

In response, Commissioner Nepomuceno reaffirmed his commitment to pursuing reforms within the BOC, in line with the vision of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. for a more transparent, accountable, and efficient government. “Inutusan ako ni Pangulong Bongbong kung ano ang dapat gawin dito, pagbutihin natin, and his intention to pursue good governance, especially for the Bureau,” Commissioner Nepomuceno said. “Let’s not second guess his intention, therefore, don’t second guess my programs. What I’m doing on day one will be the same things I will pursue until I leave the Bureau.”

Commissioner Nepomuceno also expressed his appreciation to PGEN. Torre and the PNP for their continued partnership, stressing that meaningful reforms and national goals can only be realized through a collective effort and unity across government institutions. He highlighted that the fight against smuggling, corruption, and inefficiencies at Customs can only be won through a strong, united front.

Also present at the ceremony were other key officials from law enforcement and allied agencies, including Director Brigadier General Romeo Macapaz of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group, Regional Director PBGen Jean Salvador Fajardo of the PNP, Assistant Director Noel Bocaling of the National Bureau of Investigation, and Atty. Magtanggol Gatdula of the Quezon City Police District, reflecting the broad inter-agency support for BOC’s reform agenda and commitment to public service.

The visit reinforces the BOC and PNP’s shared commitment to serving the Filipino people with integrity, transparency, and dedication to national security.

09/07/2025

*BOC, DA, and SBMA Uncover Smuggled Agricultural Goods in Subic*

In line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s directive to strengthen national food security and protect the interests of local farmers, the Bureau of Customs (BOC), together with the Department of Agriculture (DA) and the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA), conducted a joint inspection at the Port of Subic on 8 July 2025. The inspection uncovered misdeclared agricultural products in ten (10) 40-foot containers. These shipments, initially declared as “Chicken Lollipops” or “Chicken Poppers,” were found to contain agricultural commodities, including carrots, white onions, and frozen mackerel.

A total of 52 containers were flagged by the BOC for further inspection, and after extensive evaluation and clearance by the DA, 21 containers have been released. However, 31 containers remain under customs custody, including the 10 containers estimated to hold agricultural goods worth PHP 100 million.

The inspection was led by BOC Port of Subic District Collector Noel C. Estanislao, DA Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr., and SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño. Authorities confirmed that the shipments were misdeclared, a clear attempt to bypass customs regulations. This deliberate misdeclaration not only jeopardized public safety and food security but also posed a serious threat to the livelihood of Filipino farmers, flooding the market with illegally imported goods.

In response to these violations, the Port of Subic will issue Warrants of Seizure and Detention (WSD) against the shipments for possible violations of Section 19 of DA Circular No. 4, s. 2016; Sections 7(c) and 7(e) of the Anti-Agricultural Economic Sabotage Act; Section 1400, and Section 1113(f) and (l)(3), (4), and (5) of the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (CMTA); and Section 61(d) of Republic Act (RA) No. 8550, as amended by RA 10654, and Fisheries Administrative Order 195 s. 1999.

District Collector Estanislao reaffirmed the Port’s commitment to strict enforcement of customs laws, stating, “We will not tolerate any form of smuggling that undermines our agricultural sector and puts consumers at risk. The Port of Subic remains resolute in upholding the law and protecting our borders.”

This operation supports President Marcos Jr.'s efforts to strengthen food security and combat agricultural smuggling. BOC Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno reaffirmed the BOC’s commitment to protecting local farmers and consumers from the adverse effects of smuggling and fraudulent practices.

The BOC continues to monitor the remaining containers, with further examinations underway. The Bureau assures the public that it will continue to enforce customs regulations firmly and fairly, ensuring that violators are held accountable for their actions.

Commissioner Nepomuceno has also tasked the relevant offices within the BOC to determine and file the proper charges against the individuals responsible for this illegal activity. The Bureau remains steadfast in its mission to ensure that all violators face the full force of the law.

02/07/2025

*Commissioner Nepomuceno Orders Suspension of Unserved LOAs and MOs to Ensure Lawful Enforcement*

In his first official policy move as head of the Bureau of Customs (BOC), Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno issued a memorandum on July 2, 2025 suspending the implementation of all previously approved but unserved Letters of Authority (LOAs) and Mission Orders (MOs).

The directive applies to all LOAs and MOs issued prior to July 2 that have yet to be served and covers all units under the Intelligence and Enforcement Groups. The memorandum also instructs concerned Deputy Commissioners to submit a comprehensive status report on all LOAs and MOs issued from January 1 to June 30, 2025, within 24 hours of receipt.

This measure reflects Commissioner Nepomuceno’s intent to review all pending enforcement actions and ensure that operations are properly tracked and aligned with current priorities. “We are implementing this step to clearly determine what actions are still pending and to ensure that all enforcement efforts are legally sound, properly documented, and aligned with the Bureau’s direction moving forward,” he stated.

The suspension is part of a broader effort to restore discipline in field operations, prevent unauthorized or outdated enforcement activities, and reinforce the agency’s commitment to lawful and transparent practices.

The Bureau of Customs remains aligned with the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to professionalize government operations and intensify efforts against smuggling and revenue leakage. The agency continues to uphold its core mandate through effective enforcement and institutional reform.

02/07/2025

*New Customs Commissioner Officially Assumes Post*

Marking a new chapter for the Bureau of Customs (BOC), newly appointed Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno formally assumed office on Tuesday, 01 July 2025.

Commissioner Nepomuceno brings to the BOC years of experience in public service, having previously held key leadership roles including Executive Director of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council and Undersecretary of the Office of Civil Defense.

Prior to his current appointment, former Office of Civil Defense Undersecretary served the BOC as Deputy Commissioner of the Enforcement Group from 2013 to 2017 and as Assistant Commissioner from 2017 to 2018. His extensive experience in enforcement and leadership, coupled with his background in public administration, is anticipated to support the BOC’s continued evolution into modern and credible customs administration, while reinforcing its institutional reform and enforcement priorities.

Commissioner Nepomuceno reaffirmed his full commitment to President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr.’s directives, focusing on the agency’s core mandates: boosting revenue collection, facilitating legitimate trade, combating smuggling, and fostering a professional and integrity-driven workforce.

He also emphasized the importance of continuity and collaboration, pledging to build on the gains achieved by the BOC under previous leadership while introducing strategic innovations in digitalization, enforcement, and stakeholder engagement.

Outgoing Commissioner Bienvenido Y. Rubio, who led the BOC from February 2023 to June 2025, expressed his full support for Commissioner Nepomuceno and the agency’s ongoing transformation.

During his tenure, Rubio steered the BOC to record revenue collections of PHP 883 billion in 2023 and about PHP 916 billion in 2024, consistently surpassing annual targets. Parallel enforcement gains saw seizures jump from PHP 43.29 billion worth of illicit goods in 2023 to PHP 85.16 billion in 2024 through more than 2,100 operations, demonstrating a markedly stronger anti smuggling posture.

Rubio’s administration also pushed lasting digital reforms: 161 of 166 core customs processes were automated, achieving a 96.99% digitalization rate and sharply reducing face to face transactions. Key trade facilitation tools launched during this period include the Enhanced e-Travel Customs System, the Overstaying Cargo Tracking System, the ATA Carnet Monitoring System, and the National Customs Intelligence System— platforms that collectively streamline declarations, track cargo in real time, and integrate data sharing across agencies for faster, more transparent border clearance.

As Commissioner Nepomuceno officially takes the helm, the BOC stands poised to further strengthen its role as a key institution in revenue collection, trade facilitation, border protection, and public service delivery— anchored on professionalism, transparency, and integrity.

01/07/2025

*BOC Seizes ₱34 Million Worth of Misdeclared Agricultural Goods*

In line with President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s directive to intensify the enforcement of the Anti-Agricultural Economic Sabotage Act, the Bureau of Customs Port of Manila (BOC-POM) seized over ₱34 million worth of misdeclared agricultural products.

To underscore the agency’s heightened enforcement efforts, Assistant Commissioner Atty. Vincent Philip C. Maronilla, Deputy Commissioner Michael C. Fermin, POM District Collector Alexander Gerard E. Alviar, together with Department of Agriculture (DA) Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel, Jr., inspected the seized goods on July 1, 2025, with the participation of the Department of Health and the Food and Drug Administration.

The shipments from China, which arrived on May 27 and June 1, 2025, were declared as assorted food items such as mantou, egg noodles, and kimchi. Upon issuance of alert orders and conduct of a physical inspection on June 10, the containers were found to contain red onions, white onions, and frozen mackerel, with an estimated value of ₱34,203,504.38.

Based on price monitoring by the DA, the estimated fair market values were ₱10.2 million for red onions, ₱3.8 million for white onions, and ₱20.08 million for frozen mackerel.

On June 23, 2025, a Warrant of Seizure and Detention (WSD) was issued for the goods due to misdeclaration and lack of the necessary import permits, which constitute violations of Section 117 in relation to Section 1113 of the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (CMTA). These provisions authorize the seizure and forfeiture of improperly imported items.

District Collector Alviar expressed his support for the continued vigilance of the Port of Manila, saying, “This operation reflects our strong commitment to protecting the local industry and ensuring that our port remains a frontline defense against agricultural smuggling.”

The BOC remains steadfast in its mission to secure the country’s borders, ensuring that only legitimate and properly declared goods enter the country, protecting our farmers and upholding fair trade for the benefit of the Filipino people.

20/06/2025

TRANSPORT AND TRADE CONFERENCE - Dr Leo Abella, the Chief of the Bay Service Unit, Port of Subic was invited speaker to the 3rd Central Luzon Transport and Trade Conference, sponsored by PortCalls, held last June 19,2025 at the Marriot Hotel, Clark Pampanga. Dr Abella discussed the latest programs of District Collector Gen Noel Estanislao (Ret) in enhancing revenue collection, trade facilitation while strenghtening border protection within the Port of Subic.

05/06/2025

Collector I Jason Paul Pagala has been awarded a Certificate by Port of Clark Jairus Reyes in acknowledgment of his successful completion of the 40-hour leadership and management training conducted by the Civil Service Institute - Civil Service Commission. He has surpassed the mandatory requirement by completing a total of 47 hours of training. Collector Pagala's commitment to professional development and excellence in public service is indeed praiseworthy.

People's Headline News

17/07/2025

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