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The Bureau of Customs relieved nine personnel linked to a reported extortion incident at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport last month
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The incident is the subject of an investigation by the Internal Inquiry Division of the Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service
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BOC also implemented a 24-hour complaint reporting policy to ensure immediate action on suspected personnel misconduct
The Bureau of Customs (BOC) relieved nine personnel linked to a reported extortion incident at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3.
In a statement, the agency said it also implemented a 24-hour complaint reporting policy to ensure immediate action on suspected personnel misconduct.
The incident is the subject of an investigation by the Internal Inquiry Division of the Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service.
“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,” Customs Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno said.
The nine personnel were removed from their posts pending the outcome of the probe.
The 24-hour reporting policy was covered by a July 24, 2025 memorandum to institutionalize transparency and discipline.
It directs 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 24 hours.
Each report must include corresponding spot or incident reports along with any relevant supporting documents or evidence.
The directive also provides that offices with jurisdiction over the personnel involved may be instructed to submit initial findings and recommendations within 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 further 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.
