The Bureau of Customs’ (BOC) Enforcement and Security Service (ESS) celebrated its 37th Founding Anniversary on March 31, 2025, reaffirming its critical role in safeguarding the country’s borders against smuggling, illicit trade, and other transnational crimes. For nearly four decades, the ESS has remained at the forefront of enforcing customs laws, disrupting illegal activities, and ensuring national security through relentless vigilance and strategic enforcement operations.
One of the ESS’ significant contributions has been its critical role in the Philippines’ removal from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) Grey List. Under the leadership of Deputy Commissioner for Enforcement, Atty. Teddy S. Raval, the ESS launched rigorous measures against money laundering and terrorism financing, leading to the confiscation of an estimated Php 131,796,638 in undeclared currencies entering and exiting the country.
The ESS’ strict border enforcement has led to the successful apprehension of Php 85.167 billion worth of contraband in 2024 alone. From January to March 29 this year, ESS conducted 243 seizure operations, seizing Php 25.581 billion worth of smuggled goods—a 39.59% increase from the same period last year.
Among its major enforcement accomplishments, the ESS also marked 19.95 billion liters of imported fuel, ensuring compliance with tax regulations, amounting to Php 242.36 billion in duties and taxes. Additionally, the ESS successfully seized Php 2,046,219,649 worth of various illegal drugs, leading to 164 cases recommended for prosecution through the Bureau’s BATAS program.
In his keynote address, Commissioner Bienvenido Y. Rubio commended the ESS for its relentless efforts in fortifying border security. “For nearly four decades, our Enforcement and Security Service has stood as our first line of defense, serving as the enforcement arm of the Bureau of Customs. As someone who once served as a special agent, I understand the weight and demands of this role, both within our institution and beyond its walls,” he stated.
ESS Acting Director Isabelo A. Tibayan III expressed gratitude to Commissioner Rubio for his steadfast support and visionary leadership. He also thanked the Commissioner for his support in enhancing ESS operational capabilities through the procurement of modern enforcement equipment, including 100 units of 5.56 rifles, 200 units of 1911 pistols, two sets of chemical analyzers, and critical repairs and renovations of the ESS headquarters.
The 37th Founding Anniversary of the ESS stands as a testament to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s administration’s dedication to national security, trade facilitation, and enforcement excellence. With continued modernization efforts and strategic enforcement initiatives, the ESS remains steadfast in its mission to uphold the integrity of the country’s borders and economic interests.
