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The Bureau of Customs warned the public against impostors who solicit money in exchange for alleged ‘special treatment’ or expedited processing of shipments at the agency
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The BOC said some individuals are impersonating Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno and other BOC officials
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It also received reports of a solicitation scheme called ‘Enrollment’, which claims to offer preferential treatment to importers and brokers who pay grease money
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Nepomuceno strongly condemned the illicit activity, categorically denying any involvement in this or any other similar solicitation scheme
The Bureau of Customs (BOC) warned the public against impostors who solicit money in exchange for alleged “special treatment” or expedited processing of shipments at the agency.
The BOC said it received reports of individuals impersonating Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno and other BOC officials as well as a solicitation scheme called “Enrollment”, which claims to offer preferential treatment to importers and brokers who pay grease money.
Nepomuceno strongly condemned the illicit activity, categorically denying any involvement in this or any other similar solicitation scheme.
In a statement, the BOC chief said: “The Bureau of Customs, under my leadership, will never tolerate or condone any form of extortion, bribery, or solicitation in exchange for special favors.”
He added: “Any attempt to exploit the BOC’s name or my position for personal gain is a direct assault on the integrity of our institution, and it will be met with swift and uncompromising action. I will not allow these schemes to take root or persist under my leadership.”
The BOC has initiated an investigation to identify and hold accountable those behind the scheme.
The public was also reminded that despite prior warnings, any person who chooses to engage with or act on these fraudulent offers assumes full responsibility for the consequences, including potential criminal prosecution.
Nepomuceno directed all BOC personnel to uphold the highest standards of integrity and warned that any involvement in such schemes will result in immediate administrative and criminal sanctions.
He urged stakeholders and the public to remain vigilant and immediately report any suspicious offers or solicitations related to this scheme through the BOC’s Customer Assistance and Response Services via hotline 8705-6000 or email at complaints@customs.gov.ph
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