The Bureau of Customs (BOC) has confiscated over ₱5.5 million in undeclared Philippine currency from a Japanese national attempting to leave the country via Mactan-Cebu International Airport, in a move aimed at curbing money laundering and illicit financial flows.

The seizure, which took place on September 21, was conducted in accordance with directives from President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and underscores the BOC’s intensified efforts to monitor cross-border cash movements that may be linked to criminal activity or economic destabilization.

Under Customs Memorandum Order No. 17-2023, travelers carrying more than ₱50,000 in Philippine currency must secure written authorization from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP). In this case, only ₱50,000 was returned to the passenger, while the remaining ₱5.550 million was confiscated due to lack of clearance. The funds are now subject to a Warrant of Seizure and Detention (WSD) Order and were documented through a Held Baggage Receipt.

All relevant documents have been forwarded to the BOC–Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) Technical Working Group in Manila for further investigation. The operation also complied with OCOM Memorandum Nos. 31-2023 and 58-2023, which mandate strict currency monitoring and the use of multi-currency counting and printing machines.

Port of Cebu District Collector Atty. Felipe Geoffrey K. De Vera praised the vigilance of airport personnel. “This interception highlights the dedication of our frontliners in ensuring compliance with customs regulations and in protecting the integrity of our ports of entry,” he said.

BOC Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno emphasized the broader implications of the operation. “This goes beyond compliance—it’s about protecting our nation from the risks posed by unregulated currency movements. The Bureau remains steadfast in its role of safeguarding the country’s economic security,” he said.

The successful interception reflects the Philippines’ strengthened commitment to financial integrity, following its removal from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey list in February 2025.

The BOC reminds all travelers that transporting Philippine currency exceeding ₱50,000 without proper authorization is strictly prohibited.