The Bureau of Customs (BOC) has reported a major breakthrough in its anti-smuggling campaign, confiscating ₱2.390 billion worth of illicit goods in just two months under the leadership of Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno.

From July to August 2025, the agency launched 128 enforcement operations targeting illegal drugs, counterfeit cigarettes, and agricultural contraband. The intensified crackdown follows President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to stamp out smuggling and protect the country’s borders.

Among the seized items were ₱1.230 billion worth of illegal drugs, ₱929 million in illicit tobacco and vape products, and ₱178 million in smuggled agricultural goods. The BOC’s efforts were bolstered by close coordination with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), the Inter-Agency Drug Interdiction Task Group, and other law enforcement bodies.

One of the most significant operations occurred on July 17, when Commissioner Nepomuceno personally led the inspection of a shipment at the Manila International Container Port (MICP). The raid uncovered 110.24 kilograms of shabu valued at ₱749.63 million — one of the largest drug hauls of the year.

On August 22, BOC operatives raided a warehouse in Plaridel, Bulacan, seizing ₱605.29 million worth of smuggled cigarettes. The bust is the biggest cigarette-related interception of 2025 so far, sending a strong message to smugglers attempting to exploit the country’s trade routes.

Agricultural smuggling also remained a top priority. In coordination with the Department of Agriculture, the BOC intercepted ₱178 million worth of fishery products, onions, carrots, poultry, and sugar. These seizures were made in line with Republic Act 12022, the Anti-Agricultural Economic Sabotage Act, which classifies large-scale farm goods smuggling as economic sabotage.

In addition to enforcement, Commissioner Nepomuceno has rolled out key policy reforms aimed at curbing corruption and tightening operational discipline. On July 2, he suspended all previously approved but unserved Letters of Authority (LOAs) and Mission Orders (MOs). Two weeks later, he issued a landmark memorandum banning all BOC personnel from holding financial interests in Customs Brokerage operations.

“These results, along with our steadfast commitment to instituting meaningful reforms, stand as strong evidence of our determination to combat smuggling in all its forms,” Nepomuceno said. “I commend the dedication of the BOC’s Intelligence and Enforcement Group as well as our District Offices nationwide, whose tireless efforts form the backbone of these successful operations.”

The BOC said it will continue its aggressive enforcement campaign, backed by reforms that promote integrity and accountability, in its mission to safeguard the nation’s borders and protect Filipino livelihoods.