(This article is part of a special PortCalls supplement for the Bureau of Customs’ 124th anniversary.)
The Bureau of Customs (BOC) sustained and further strengthened its good governance reforms initiated in 2025, as it moves forward in 2026 with the Integrity, Accountability, and Modernization (IAM) program under the leadership of Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno.
Building on the gains of the previous year, the BOC institutionalized key policies and initiatives to prevent corruption, reinforce ethical standards, enhance citizen engagement, and improve organizational performance. These reforms now serve as the foundation of the Bureau’s IAM program, ensuring that integrity-driven and modernization-focused initiatives remain embedded in customs operations.
Among the major accomplishments carried out and enhanced was the full implementation of the updated Integrity Action Plan (IAP) across all offices, with technical support from the World Customs Organization (WCO). Through corruption risk mapping and alignment with international integrity standards, the IAP strengthened transparency and accountability by modernizing customs processes, reinforcing audit and investigation mechanisms, and improving internal controls to reduce discretion, prevent fraud, and promote ethical public service.
The Bureau also approved a revised Code of Conduct on 21 April 2025, aligned with existing national laws and the WCO Model Code of Ethics. Bureau-wide cascading sessions and the distribution of printed copies ensured institutional adoption, laying the groundwork for a stronger culture of integrity that continues to guide personnel behavior under the IAM framework.
Transparency safeguards were further enhanced through Memorandum No. 39- 2025, which imposed stricter disclosure and conflict-of-interest rules. These measures barred customs personnel from engaging in business with customs brokers and required the declaration of familial ties, reinforcing impartiality and accountability in customs operations.
Citizen engagement initiatives introduced in 2025 continue to be strengthened in 2026. The launch of “Isumbong kay Commissioner” provided the public with a direct and accessible platform to report complaints and concerns, improving responsiveness and trust.
In September 2025, the rollout of the revised Citizens’ Charter clarified service standards, streamlined procedures, and reinforced transparency—key elements now integrated into the Bureau’s modernization agenda.
Complementing governance reforms, the BOC expanded its workforce, implemented merit-based human resource development policies, and invested in extensive local and international training programs. Organizational restructuring efforts under the Government Optimization Act further enhanced operational efficiency and institutional sustainability, supporting the long-term goals of the IAM program.
Through the continuity and enhancement of its good governance initiatives, the Bureau of Customs reaffirms its commitment to integrity, accountability, and modernization in 2026. These reforms support President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s call for transparent, efficient, and accountable public service, while advancing economic growth and safeguarding national interests.
Read the full PortCalls supplement here.
