The Bureau of Customs (BOC) strongly condemns the circulation of a fraudulent Memorandum purportedly dated November 21, 2024, which falsely claims the implementation of a mandatory cash bond for new importers. The uncovered falsification of document, which was deliberately made to appear as one issued by the Office of the Commissioner, is a dire attempt to mislead the public and undermine the integrity of the BOC’s operations, not mention concomitant swindling schemes against gullible and unsuspecting transacting stakeholders.

The Bureau clarifies that no such memorandum has been issued by the Office of the Commissioner. The information and regulations contained in the document are entirely baseless and do not reflect the policies or practices of the agency.

The BOC will conduct thorough investigation into the matter to identify the individuals or groups behind this malicious act. Legal action will certainly be pursued to the fullest extent against those found responsible for this fraudulent activity.

The BOC urges the public, stakeholders, and the importing community to exercise vigilance and verify the authenticity of any communication or policy through official channels. All relevant BOC policies are published on its official website at customs.gov.ph.

For inquiries or to report suspicious documents, stakeholders are encouraged to contact the Bureau of Customs through its hotline at (02) 8705-6000 or email at boc.cares@customs.gov.ph.