In his first official policy move as head of the Bureau of Customs (BOC), Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno issued a memorandum on July 2, 2025 suspending the implementation of all previously approved but unserved Letters of Authority (LOAs) and Mission Orders (MOs).

The directive applies to all LOAs and MOs issued prior to July 2 that have yet to be served and covers all units under the Intelligence and Enforcement Groups. The memorandum also instructs concerned Deputy Commissioners to submit a comprehensive status report on all LOAs and MOs issued from January 1 to June 30, 2025, within 24 hours of receipt.

This measure reflects Commissioner Nepomuceno’s intent to review all pending enforcement actions and ensure that operations are properly tracked and aligned with current priorities. “We are implementing this step to clearly determine what actions are still pending and to ensure that all enforcement efforts are legally sound, properly documented, and aligned with the Bureau’s direction moving forward,” he stated.

The suspension is part of a broader effort to restore discipline in field operations, prevent unauthorized or outdated enforcement activities, and reinforce the agency’s commitment to lawful and transparent practices.

The Bureau of Customs remains aligned with the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to professionalize government operations and intensify efforts against smuggling and revenue leakage. The agency continues to uphold its core mandate through effective enforcement and institutional reform.

###