Claims that the Bureau of Customs (BOC) issued an order mandating a financial commitment for new importers seeking clearance have been flatly refuted. The bureau vehemently denounced the release of this phony story, describing it as a deliberate effort to deceive the public and damage the institution’s reputation.
A one-time cash bond of P4 million for businesses and P3 million for sole proprietors or partnerships was allegedly required by the fake memo, according to the BOC. Combating widespread fraud among importers, such as the submission of fabricated paperwork and misdeclaration procedures, was the alleged justification for this.
The BOC noted, however, that these assertions were “entirely baseless” and lacked official policy support. It underlined how such behavior runs counter to the agency’s dedication to accountability and transparency.
Image of the fake Bureau of Customs memo requiring a mandatory cash bond from new importers. Image from the BOC.
BOC Denies Issuing Fake Memo on Mandatory Cash Bond
Investigation and Legal Action
In response to this incident, the BOC has announced plans to conduct a comprehensive investigation to identify those responsible for creating and distributing the falsified memo. In a public statement, the bureau declared:
“Legal action will certainly be pursued to the fullest extent against those found responsible for this fraudulent activity.”
Additionally, the BOC has called on stakeholders and the importing community to remain vigilant. It urged them to confirm the authenticity of any communication or policy directly through the bureau’s official channels, such as its official website and contact lines.
BOC’s Priority Programs for 2025
The Bureau of Customs is dedicated to expanding its activities and accomplishing its objectives in spite of these obstacles. Five major initiatives to improve the bureau’s performance were recently outlined by Customs Commissioner Bienvenido Rubio for 2025:
1. Digitalization
The BOC seeks to modernize its processes by incorporating digital solutions. Initiatives include:
- Implementation of online customs declaration systems, reducing paperwork and improving efficiency.
- Automation of document submission to minimize processing delays.
2. Trade Facilitation
By simplifying procedures and reducing red tape, the bureau aims to:
- Promote transparency.
- Facilitate smoother transactions for legitimate traders.
- Align its practices with international trade standards.
3. Curbing Smuggling
Stricter border controls and collaborative efforts with law enforcement agencies are planned to:
- Address smuggling of contraband goods.
- Strengthen intelligence-gathering mechanisms.
4. Surpassing Revenue Targets
The BOC targets revenue collection of P1.06 trillion in 2025, surpassing previous achievements. This goal involves:
- Enhancing compliance among importers.
- Closing revenue loopholes through stricter monitoring.
5. Employee Welfare and Conduct
The agency also focuses on improving its workforce by:
- Offering training and professional development.
- Promoting integrity and accountability within the organization.
Achievements and Lessons from 2024
Revenue Collection Success
In 2024, the BOC exceeded its revenue target by collecting P950 billion against a target of P939.6 billion. This success underscores the effectiveness of the bureau’s strategies and collaborative efforts.
Case Study: Authorized Economic Operator Program
The Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) program, implemented as part of trade facilitation efforts, yielded notable results:
- Improved clearance times for compliant traders.
- Increased efficiency in trade logistics.
Digital Transformation
The launch of an online customs declaration system in 2024 highlighted the BOC’s commitment to reducing bureaucratic hurdles and streamlining operations.
Public Advisory: Staying Informed
The BOC reminds the public and importing community to always verify information through trusted sources. Fraudulent memos and schemes often target unsuspecting individuals, emphasizing the need for vigilance and proactive measures.
For verified policies and updates, stakeholders can visit the official BOC website.
