In a historic crackdown on smuggling, the Bureau of Customs (BOC) in the Philippines announced the seizure of smuggled goods valued at PHP85.167 billion in 2024. BOC Commissioner Bienvenido Rubio highlighted this achievement as the largest in the agency’s history during a press conference on Wednesday. The operation, led by the Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service (CIIS), underscores a significant victory against illegal trade activities.
Despite this success, Rubio emphasized the need for ongoing vigilance due to the sophisticated methods employed by criminal networks. He stressed the importance of strengthening anti-smuggling efforts to protect society from the detrimental effects of illicit trade. Rubio’s comments came during a statement where he acknowledged the evolving nature of smuggling challenges.
The CIIS celebrated its 38th founding anniversary on Monday, where the CIIS-Manila International Container Port was recognized as the top-performing field station. This accolade followed their seizure of contraband worth PHP60.5 billion the previous year, which included illegal drugs valued at PHP876 million.
During the anniversary event, Rubio, along with Intelligence Group Deputy Commissioner Juvymax Uy and CIIS Director Verne Enciso, presented a PHP500,000 donation to the GMA Kapuso Foundation. Rubio noted that the funds would aid in constructing schools and bridges in disaster-affected regions, particularly in Camarines Sur. He praised the selfless contribution of Intelligence Group personnel, who donated part of their Christmas bonuses to support this initiative.