Bureau of Customs (BOC) Commissioner Bienvenido Y. Rubio commended the agency’s Intelligence Group (IG), Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service (CIIS), and the X-ray Inspection Project (XIP) for their “significant breakthrough” in anti-smuggling operations in the country which resulted to the seizure of Php 30.86 billion worth of smuggled goods.

In his congratulatory message during the Bureau’s flag-raising ceremony on Monday, August 7, 2023, Commissioner Rubio stressed that the recorded seizure for 2023 covers only January 1 to August 4, 2023, but has already exceeded the aggregate value of goods seized in 2022 by Php 6 billion.

“Their performances have led to a significant breakthrough in our fight against smuggling. The strengthened anti-smuggling operations spearheaded by these teams have yielded outstanding results,” he added.

Commissioner Rubio emphasized that under the leadership of Deputy Commissioner Juvymax Uy, the Intelligence Group’s commitment in protecting the country’s borders recorded the highest total value of seized goods in the past five years.

“Your drive to ensure trade integrity and safeguard our borders is highly commendable,” Commissioner Rubio said.

During the event, Commissioner Rubio likewise acknowledged the work of the Accounting Division, Port Administrative Officers, Accountants, and staff for their consistent adherence to the Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP).

While adherence to the GAAP “demands great effort,” Commissioner Rubio said that with their expertise and willingness to uphold these rules and standards, they have ensured that the financial statements are truthful, transparent, and accurate.

For Commissioner Rubio, the milestones of the Bureau’s different departments demonstrate their hard work.

“Each one of you has shown commitment to the values and principles of the Bureau of Customs, and for that, I am genuinely grateful. I call upon you to remain faithful to the service,” he said.

“Together, let us continue to push boundaries, break new ground, and uphold excellence, accountability, and the protection of our nation’s interests,” he added.#