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The Bureau of Customs said it had already begun implementing sweeping anti-corruption measures under the leadership of Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno, even before the release of the 2025 US State Department Investment Climate Report
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The report cited bribery and corruption as major impediments to foreign investment in the Philippines
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Key measures include a “No Take” policy banning all forms of bribery and illegal monetary transactions, a ban on Customs officials owning interests in brokerage businesses, and mandatory affidavits disclosing past or current links to customs-related businesses
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Nepomuceno emphasized that reforms are proactive, not reactionary, and aimed at building clean governance
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BOC encouraged the public and stakeholders to report corruption via official complaint channels
The Bureau of Customs (BOC) said it had already begun implementing sweeping anti-corruption measures under the leadership of Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno, even before the release of the 2025 US State Department Investment Climate Report, which cited bribery and corruption as major impediments to foreign investment in the Philippines.
“The reforms we introduced within my first 100 days were not reactionary. They were proactive measures rooted in our commitment to clean governance,” Nepomuceno said in a press release. “These measures directly respond to the very issues highlighted in the US State Department report, and we will continue pushing forward with both short and long-term solutions.”
READ: Nepomuceno assumes office at BOC
Among the key measures introduced is a strict “No Take” policy that prohibits any form of bribery or unlawful monetary transactions within the agency.
The directive applies to all levels of personnel, with violations subject to disciplinary action and coordination with law enforcement authorities.
In a move to eliminate potential conflicts of interest, Nepomuceno issued a memorandum on July 10, 2025, banning Customs officials and employees from holding any financial or ownership interest in customs brokerage firms. Staff members are also required to disclose family ties to such businesses to ensure impartiality in customs transactions.
To strengthen oversight, the Customs chief directed all personnel to submit affidavits disclosing any business or personal links to customs-related enterprises, including prior associations. These disclosures are meant to enhance transparency and prevent hidden conflicts of interest.
Responding to concerns from importers and traders about excessive audits, Nepomuceno also ordered the temporary suspension of unserved Letters of Authority and mission orders to review enforcement practices.
Nepomuceno emphasized the importance of strengthening ties with international partners and foreign business chambers to uphold fair and professional treatment of investors transacting with the BOC.
As part of this initiative, the BOC will continue to support and expand the Customs Industry and Advisory Council (CICAC), a formal platform for dialogue between the BOC and key stakeholders in trade, logistics, and foreign investment.
Through CICAC, the BOC seeks to institutionalize regular consultations, foster policy transparency, and jointly develop reforms that improve customs operations while protecting the interests of legitimate enterprises.
READ: BOC launches consultative body CICAC
The BOC acknowledges that lasting institutional reform will require sustained effort. While recent measures serve as essential short-term steps to rebuild trust and reinforce accountability, the agency’s long-term strategy is anchored in the full digitalization and automation of customs operations.
“We are fully committed to transforming the Bureau of Customs into a model of integrity and professionalism,” Nepomuceno said. “Corruption has no place in our agency, and we will continue to pursue reforms that protect investors, promote fair trade, and uphold public trust.”
The BOC urged stakeholders to report corrupt practices through its official complaint channels via complaint@customs.gov.ph or directly to the Office of the Commissioner at boc.ocom@customs.gov.ph, assuring that all submissions are treated confidentially and investigated thoroughly.
