President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. marked the 123rd anniversary of the Bureau of Customs (BOC) with a strong call for its officials and staff to prioritize the public’s welfare and operate with utmost integrity. Speaking at the Philippine International Convention Center in Pasay City, Marcos emphasized the BOC’s crucial role in advancing the nation’s progress and restoring public trust.
Marcos praised the BOC for its significant strides in digitalization, achieving a 96.99 percent rate by December 2024, which he said has helped to eliminate opportunities for corruption. He highlighted the bureau’s efforts in improving trade facilitation and its success in collecting PHP931 billion in 2024, a PHP40 billion increase from the previous year.
The President also acknowledged the BOC’s role in border protection, noting the seizure of over PHP85 billion worth of smuggled goods in 2024, nearly double the amount from the year before. These efforts, Marcos stated, protect local farmers and ensure fair competition in the market, ultimately benefiting consumers with more competitive prices.
Marcos stressed the importance of accountability within the BOC, mentioning the de-accreditation of 56 importers and customs brokers involved in illegal activities, and the filing of 45 criminal complaints, resulting in 18 convictions. He also noted disciplinary actions against BOC employees, including dismissals and suspensions, underscoring that the law must apply equally to all, especially those in public service.
The anniversary celebration, themed ‘Customs Delivering on its Commitment to Efficiency, Security, and Prosperity,’ showcased the BOC’s commitment to its three-fold mandate of revenue collection, trade facilitation, and border protection. As the second largest revenue-generating agency under the Department of Finance, the BOC continues to play a pivotal role in the country’s economic and security landscape.