The Bureau of Customs (BOC) has relieved nine (9) Customs personnel linked to a reported extortion incident at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3 and has implemented a 24-hour complaint reporting policy to ensure immediate action on personnel misconduct.
The incident, which occurred in June 2025, is now the subject of a full-blown investigation by the Internal Inquiry Division of the Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service (CIIS). The involved personnel have been removed from their posts pending the outcome of the probe.
“We take these matters seriously and there will be no leniency for personnel who abuse their position. Any form of misconduct will be met with immediate and appropriate action,” Commissioner Nepomuceno said.
To further institutionalize discipline and transparency, the BOC has also issued a memorandum dated 24 July 2025 directing all Deputy Commissioners, District Collectors, District Commanders, Port Supervisors, Examiners, and concerned personnel to report formal written complaints filed against BOC personnel to the Office of the Commissioner within twenty-four (24) hours. Each report must include corresponding Spot or Incident Reports and any relevant supporting documents or evidence.
The directive further provides that offices with jurisdiction over the personnel involved may be instructed to submit initial findings and recommendations within forty-eight (48) hours of the complaint’s filing. These may include proposals for preventive suspension or relief orders, as deemed necessary by the Commissioner. The directive also states that the Commissioner may act moto proprio as necessary to safeguard the integrity of internal processes.
Failure to comply with the reporting requirement may result in the presumption of Neglect of Duty or other administrative violations under the Revised Rules on Administrative Cases in the Civil Service and shall be dealt with accordingly.
The BOC remains steadfast in its commitment to cleanse its ranks, uphold the highest standards of integrity, and take swift action against any form of misconduct. Under the current leadership, the BOC will continue to strengthen internal controls and pursue lasting institutional reforms in the service of the Filipino people.
