Bureau of Customs, Port of Surigao

| The Bureau of Customs (BOC) recorded its highest cumulative surplus for the January to April period in the past 10 years, with total collections reaching ₱325.808 billion—exceeding its target of ₱314.660 billion by ₱11.148 billion or 3.5%. This reflects a growth of ₱19.729 billion or 6.4% compared to the same period in 2025, underscoring the Bureau’s sustained revenue performance and strong start toward its trillion-peso goal for 2026.

The BOC also posted the highest April collection in its history, collecting ₱86.400 billion, surpassing its target of ₱78.600 billion by 9.9% or ₱7.800 billion and increasing by 15.7% or ₱11.699 billion from the same month last year, based on preliminary data.

“This is our highest year-to-date surplus on record for the last 10 years, and it reflects the discipline, integrity, and consistency of our personnel across all ports. Even in the face of global uncertainties and policy shifts that affect our revenue base, we continue to deliver results that directly support government programs and national development,” Commissioner Nepomuceno said.

| The Bureau of Customs (BOC) recorded its highest cumulative surplus for the January to April period in the past 10 years, with total collections reaching ₱325.808 billion—exceeding its target of ₱314.660 billion by ₱11.148 billion or 3.5%. This reflects a growth of ₱19.729 billion or 6.4% compared to the same period in 2025, underscoring the Bureau’s sustained revenue performance and strong start toward its trillion-peso goal for 2026.

The BOC also posted the highest April collection in its history, collecting ₱86.400 billion, surpassing its target of ₱78.600 billion by 9.9% or ₱7.800 billion and increasing by 15.7% or ₱11.699 billion from the same month last year, based on preliminary data.

“This is our highest year-to-date surplus on record for the last 10 years, and it reflects the discipline, integrity, and consistency of our personnel across all ports. Even in the face of global uncertainties and policy shifts that affect our revenue base, we continue to deliver results that directly support government programs and national development,” Commissioner Nepomuceno said.

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𝐏𝐨𝐫𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝐒𝐮𝐫𝐢𝐠𝐚𝐨 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐮𝐜𝐭𝐬 𝟏𝐬𝐭 𝐒𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐤𝐞𝐡𝐨𝐥𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐬’ 𝐌𝐞𝐞𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐂𝐘 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟔

The Bureau of Customs – Port of Surigao successfully conducted its 1st Semester Stakeholders’ Meeting for CY 2026 on April 7, 2026, via Zoom, with the theme “Strengthening Partnership for Smoother Customs Service.” The virtual gathering brought together internal and external stakeholders to reinforce collaboration and enhance service delivery.

Coll. Haneli Jenifer V. Siason, Deputy Collector for Assessment, opened the program by welcoming everyone and highlighting how strong partnerships and continuous dialogue are key to more efficient and transparent customs operations.

Atty. Rachel Ruth B. Montilla, Chief of the Law Division, explained the role of the Customs Industry Consultative and Advisory Council (CICAC), as a platform for collaboration between the Bureau and the private sector to address concerns and support trade facilitation.

The meeting also featured important updates from various departments. Ms. Donnavilla Diche, Acting Head of the Bay Service Section at the Sub-port of Nasipit, presented developments in export operations and compliance. Ms. Emilyn M. Gonzales, Head of the Customer Care Center and Acting Assistant Chief of the Piers and Inspection Division, reiterated documentary requirements and promoted the proper use of the Customer Care Portal System (CCPS) to streamline transactions. SA II James Argel D. Camacho reported on initiatives of the Enforcement and Security Service (ESS) to enhance border security and monitoring.

During the open forum, stakeholders had the opportunity to ask questions, voice concerns, and receive answers on various topics. This interactive part of the meeting helped build trust and strengthen the partnership between the Bureau and its stakeholders.

To wrap up the meeting, Mr. Miguel Oscar Antonio F. Pizarro, Port Collector of Subport of Bislig and Deputy Collector for Operations, thanked everyone for their participation and support. He assured all attendees that the Port remains dedicated to working together for better, more efficient customs services.

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𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐠𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐒𝐦𝐮𝐠𝐠𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐬𝐞𝐜𝐮𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧: 𝐁𝐎𝐂 𝐏𝐨𝐫𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝐒𝐮𝐫𝐢𝐠𝐚𝐨 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐮𝐜𝐭𝐬 𝐎𝐧𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐞 𝐓𝐞𝐜𝐡𝐧𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐥 𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐤𝐬𝐡𝐨𝐩

The Bureau of Customs – Port of Surigao conducted an online technical workshop on the handling and prosecution of smuggling incidents on April 14, 2026 via Zoom Meeting, attended by 70 participants from various law enforcement agencies and provincial prosecutors across CARAGA region.

Resource speaker Atty. Christopher Dy Buco, Chief of the Prosecution and Litigation Division and Director of the Bureau of Customs Action Team Against Smugglers (BATAS), discussed the criminal prosecution of offenses under Republic Act No. 10863 or the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (CMTA), and Republic Act No. 12022 or the Anti-Agricultural Economic Sabotage Act.

Participants included representatives from the Regional Highway Patrol Group, Provincial Intelligence Units, Special Operations Units, and prosecutors from Surigao City, Surigao del Norte, and Agusan del Norte.

Aligned with the directives of Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno, the workshop strengthened coordination between enforcement agencies and prosecutors and enhanced participants’ knowledge on proper case build-up, evidence handling, and the prosecution of smuggling offenses.

Bureau of Customs PH

BOC surpasses Q1 collection target, supports delivery of priority government programs

The Bureau of Customs (BOC) recorded total collections of PHP239.054 billion from January to March 2026, surpassing its internal target by 1.3% and growing 3.3% year-on-year, based on preliminary figures.

Finance Secretary Frederick D. Go commended the BOC for this achievement, noting that the strong performance reflects strengthened governance and sustained gains from reforms.

“The Bureau of Customs’ highest-ever first-quarter collection demonstrates that our commitment to reforms, transparency, and accountability is delivering real results. These gains will directly support the government’s priority programs and benefit the Filipino people,” Secretary Frederick Go said.

This performance places the first quarter of 2026 among the Bureau’s top-performing periods, surpassed only by the July to September collections in 2025, which likewise recorded a historic high under the current leadership.

The BOC attributed its strong performance to the collective efforts of its ports and subports nationwide, whose personnel continue to ensure the efficient and lawful collection of duties and taxes.

A key driver of this outcome was the Bureau’s intensified campaign against illegal trade. First-quarter revenues were bolstered by the successful public auction of forfeited goods—particularly smuggled high-end vehicles—effectively converting illicit assets into public revenue.
These efforts were complemented by strengthened post-clearance audit operations, reinforcing compliance with customs laws and ensuring the accurate payment of duties and taxes.

The Bureau’s milestone underscores its continued adherence to the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., complemented by the Department of Finance’s fiscal guidance, to strengthen revenue generation while upholding transparency and accountability.

“Every peso we collect helps fund essential services, advance national development, and build a better future for every Filipino,” Secretary Frederick Go added.

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PR: https://www.dof.gov.ph/boc-surpasses-q1-collection-target-supports-delivery-of-priority-government-programs/?fbclid=IwY2xjawRF0fBleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFaSG1tbUNKUGVBWkZRRkNsc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHkNHQtP6uBFR1bo3xi9TC09n6mXMTuEKIG5MGg56YS9n238mwQ6epZ_5npd0_aem_AKHUfC0RUZC1Pj5jeV4Ryg

BOC surpasses Q1 collection target, supports delivery of priority government programs

The Bureau of Customs (BOC) recorded total collections of PHP239.054 billion from January to March 2026, surpassing its internal target by 1.3% and growing 3.3% year-on-year, based on preliminary figures.

Finance Secretary Frederick D. Go commended the BOC for this achievement, noting that the strong performance reflects strengthened governance and sustained gains from reforms.

“The Bureau of Customs’ highest-ever first-quarter collection demonstrates that our commitment to reforms, transparency, and accountability is delivering real results. These gains will directly support the government’s priority programs and benefit the Filipino people,” Secretary Frederick Go said.

This performance places the first quarter of 2026 among the Bureau’s top-performing periods, surpassed only by the July to September collections in 2025, which likewise recorded a historic high under the current leadership.

The BOC attributed its strong performance to the collective efforts of its ports and subports nationwide, whose personnel continue to ensure the efficient and lawful collection of duties and taxes.

A key driver of this outcome was the Bureau’s intensified campaign against illegal trade. First-quarter revenues were bolstered by the successful public auction of forfeited goods—particularly smuggled high-end vehicles—effectively converting illicit assets into public revenue.

These efforts were complemented by strengthened post-clearance audit operations, reinforcing compliance with customs laws and ensuring the accurate payment of duties and taxes.

The Bureau’s milestone underscores its continued adherence to the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., complemented by the Department of Finance’s fiscal guidance, to strengthen revenue generation while upholding transparency and accountability.

“Every peso we collect helps fund essential services, advance national development, and build a better future for every Filipino,” Secretary Frederick Go added.

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PR: https://www.dof.gov.ph/boc-surpasses-q1-collection-target-supports-delivery-of-priority-government-programs/

| BOC Beats Target Again, Secures ₱84.4B in March 2026 for Nation-building

Delivering on President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to strengthen revenue generation while improving public service, the Bureau of Customs (BOC) exceeded its March 2026 collection target, generating ₱84.426 billion in revenues to support vital government programs and services for the Filipino people.

Based on preliminary figures, the BOC surpassed its target of ₱83.237 billion by ₱1.190 billion, achieving a 1.4% increase above target. This also reflects a ₱4.067 billion increase or 5.1% growth compared to the ₱80.359 billion collected in March 2025.

Customs Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno emphasized that the BOC’s strong performance translates directly into better public services, funding for infrastructure, and support for social programs that benefit millions of Filipinos.

“Ang bawat pisong nakokolekta natin ay direktang napupunta sa mga programang magpapabuti sa buhay ng ating mga kababayan. Ito ang tunay na sukatan ng aming serbisyo—isang pamahalaang may malasakit, may pananagutan, at may tunay na pakinabang para sa mamamayan,” Commissioner Nepomuceno said.

Aligned with the direction of Finance Secretary Frederick D. Go, the BOC continues to advance reforms anchored on digitalization, transparency, and ease of doing business. Secretary Go has underscored the importance of efficient revenue collection and institutional integrity to sustain economic growth and ensure that government resources are maximized for public benefit.

Commissioner Nepomuceno commended all Collection Districts and Ports nationwide for their vital role in achieving the Bureau’s March targets, highlighting the dedication of frontline personnel who ensure the smooth flow of trade while safeguarding government revenues.

“I extend my deepest appreciation to our District Collectors, port personnel, and all BOC employees across the country. Your hard work, discipline, and commitment to honest service made this accomplishment possible. This is a shared victory for every Customs officer who continues to uphold our mandate with integrity. Thank you for all your efforts,” he said.

The BOC will sustain this momentum through its Integrity, Accountability, and Modernization (IAM) Program—ensuring transparent, efficient, and people-centered customs service for every Filipino.

𝐁𝐮𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐮 𝐨𝐟 𝐂𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐦𝐬 – 𝐏𝐨𝐫𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝐒𝐮𝐫𝐢𝐠𝐚𝐨 𝐂𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬 𝐍𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐖𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐧’𝐬 𝐌𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐡 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟔 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐏𝐮𝐫𝐩𝐥𝐞 𝐖𝐞𝐝𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐝𝐚𝐲𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐙𝐮𝐦𝐛𝐚 𝐀𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐢𝐭𝐲

The Bureau of Customs – Port of Surigao joined the nationwide observance of National Women’s Month this March 2026 through a series of meaningful activities that underscored its commitment to gender equality, inclusivity, and employee well-being.

To show their support, port personnel took part in “Purple Wednesdays” by wearing purple shirts every Wednesday in March. This simple, yet meaningful gesture showcased the team’s unity in advocating for women’s empowerment and equal opportunities at work.

The Port also hosted a lively Zumba session for employees, giving everyone a fun way to stay active, bond with colleagues, and celebrate the important role women play in the workplace.

By joining the National Women’s Month celebration, the Bureau of Customs – Port of Surigao shows its ongoing dedication to gender equality and to building a workplace where everyone feels valued and empowered to make a difference.

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| 𝐁𝐎𝐂 𝐄𝐚𝐫𝐧𝐬 𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐠 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐤𝐞𝐡𝐨𝐥𝐝𝐞𝐫 𝐒𝐮𝐩𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭 𝐚𝐭 𝟓𝐭𝐡 𝐂𝐈𝐂𝐀𝐂 𝐆𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐥 𝐀𝐬𝐬𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐥𝐲

To further reinforce its partnership with the private sector, the Bureau of Customs (BOC) convened the 5th General Assembly of the Customs Industry Consultative and Advisory Council (CICAC) on 19 March 2026, bringing together key industry stakeholders to advance cooperation and support more efficient customs processes. The assembly also served as a platform to review ongoing initiatives, exchange updates, and align priorities between the Bureau and its partners, in line with the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to enhance ease of doing business, streamline government processes, and strengthen public-private collaboration.

A highlight of the event was the strong expression of support and commendation from the private sector for the Bureau’s current leadership, with stakeholders from various parts of the country presenting their manifestos of support and reaffirming their confidence in the agency’s direction.

Chinese-Filipino Business Club, Inc. President Gerald Uy Chan conveyed his support for the Bureau, stating, “Because of your leadership, bridges were built; because of your leadership, trust was restored; and because of your leadership, progress became possible,” pertaining to Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno.

He further emphasized the value of the Council, noting, “What makes CICAC truly valuable is simple: it works. For the first time the private sector is not just heard, we are engaged. Not just consulted, we are included. Not just informed, we are part of the solution. And through CICAC communication has become direct, honest, and efficient. Deretso na at wala nang paligoy-ligoy, and in that simplicity, we found something powerful, which is trust. Indeed the Bureau of Customs has transformed. From an agency once avoided to an institution now respected, engaged, and trusted.” President Chan’s remarks underscored the growing confidence of the private sector in the Bureau, highlighting the tangible improvements in engagement, transparency, and trust fostered under the current administration.

During the conference proper, the BOC presented updates on deliverables from previous CICAC meetings, key presentations on ongoing operational improvements and modernization initiatives, including efforts to ease port congestion, the continued rollout of the Electronic Customs Processing (eCP) System, and developments on a proposed new Customs Processing System aimed at enhancing service delivery and ensuring more efficient and reliable cargo clearance processes.

Private sector representatives likewise shared valuable insights on prevailing industry conditions, particularly on factors influencing the movement of goods and overall logistics operations, highlighting opportunities for sustained coordination, clearer and more consistent procedures, and stronger alignment among stakeholders to further enhance efficiency across the supply chain.

In his remarks, Commissioner Nepomuceno emphasized the importance of harmonizing efforts between the Bureau and its stakeholders to ensure smoother business processes, improved revenue collection, and greater contributions to national development.

He reiterated the agency’s commitment to maintaining an open and responsive dialogue with its partners, stating, “Our commitment to you is; we are not wasting your time, we are serious in identifying what are your concerns with the Bureau of Customs, and on the other hand we are also interested to let you know what we need from you. Because again we are in the middle of a challenging aspiration that we are transforming the Bureau of Customs for you, and as I always mention too, that the very good news is and we don't have to second guess, the President himself is hoping a modern Bureau will be his legacy. So, I am honored to be part of that mission, and I need your help in making this mission successful.”

The CICAC continues to serve as a vital platform for dialogue between the BOC and its partners, supporting the shared goal of a more efficient, predictable, and globally competitive customs environment.

| 𝐂𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐦𝐬 𝐂𝐡𝐢𝐞𝐟 𝐋𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐬 𝐈𝐧𝐬𝐩𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐨𝐟 𝐒𝐞𝐢𝐳𝐞𝐝 ₱𝟐𝟑𝟓𝐌 𝐈𝐥𝐥𝐢𝐜𝐢𝐭 𝐂𝐢𝐠𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐭𝐭𝐞 𝐒𝐡𝐢𝐩𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐢𝐧 𝐁𝐚𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐚𝐬

In its continuing drive to tighten security controls against the entry of illicit to***co products, Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno spearheaded an inspection on 13 March 2026 of a recently apprehended shipment containing ₱235 million worth of smuggled ci******es from the United Arab Emirates bound for the Bureau of Customs - Port of Batangas.

The inspection underscores the BOC’s firm commitment to dismantling and disrupting the unlawful trade of to***co products, in line with the directive of Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to strengthen border protection and intensify the campaign against smuggling and illicit trade that undermine legitimate commerce and government revenues.

From January 1 to March 6, 2026, the Bureau has recorded 127 successful cigarette-related interdictions, resulting in the seizure of approximately ₱2 billion worth of illicit ci******es nationwide.
As part of its intensified enforcement efforts, the BOC continues to strengthen coordination with partner law enforcement agencies to pursue a more coordinated and whole-of-government approach in combating illicit to***co trade, one of the persistent threats to public health and fair market competition.

Central to these efforts is strengthened intelligence gathering by the Bureau, which led to the discovery of 637 master cases of ci******es during the operation.

The shipment bore the marking of the brand MAC Super Slim Ice Cool Blast Ci******es, which were found to lack the required Graphic Health Warnings in violation of Republic Act No. 10643, and did not bear the required Bureau of Internal Revenue Internal Revenue Stamps, in violation of the National Internal Revenue Code of the Philippines.

District Collector Carmelita M. Talusan, CESO, shared that the Port of Batangas will continue to strengthen enforcement operations to ensure that illicit shipments are promptly detected and interdicted at the country’s gateways.
Following the examination findings, a Warrant of Seizure and Detention (WSD) was issued for violations of Sections 117 and 1113 of the CMTA.

Commissioner Nepomuceno emphasized that the BOC’s intelligence-driven enforcement campaign against illicit to***co trade will remain relentless, stressing that those who attempt to exploit the country’s borders for illegal trade will face the full force of the law.

This sustained momentum, achieved even before the close of the first quarter of the year, reflects the Bureau’s intensified commitment to safeguarding the country’s borders, protecting legitimate industries, and upholding the integrity of the nation’s trade gateways.