The Bureau of Customs has recognized its Intelligence Group (IG) for the P30.86 billion worth of smuggled goods it seized since January.
Commissioner Bien Rubio described the accomplishment made by the IG and its agents from the Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service (CIIS) and X-ray Inspection Project (XIP) from Jan. 1 to Aug. 4 as a “significant breakthrough.”
“The performances have led to a significant breakthrough in our fight against smuggling. The strengthened anti-smuggling operations spearheaded by these teams have yielded outstanding results,” he said.
Rubio said the worth of smuggled items confiscated this year has already surpassed the value of goods seized in 2022 by P6 billion.
From January to June, the IG came up with at least 603 seizures, and most of these shipments were smuggled counterfeit products, agricultural products, tobacco products, illegal drugs, and general merchandise.
Some of the notable seizures were P86 million worth of misdeclared sugar from Hong Kong in Port of Subic on March 15; P1.4 billion worth of imported cigarettes in a Sulu warehouse on March 2; and P3.8 million worth of shabu at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport – DHL Express Warehouse on May 8.
Rubio said the IG’s “commitment to protecting our borders” resulted in “the highest total amount of seized goods in the past five years.”
Intelligence Group Deputy Commissioner Juvymax Uy, on his part, thanked the commissioner for the commendation and also underscored the “many sacrifices” of the men and women behind the group.
“These accomplishments would not have been possible without the support of the commissioner and the whole agency,” he said.
“So, as much as this recognition is for the intelligence group to enjoy, we would like to share it with everyone involved in helping us—from collecting the information against these smugglers to the actual operations. And while we make progress every day, this commendation also signals that more work needs to be done to end smuggling,” Uy added.
Rubio also acknowledged the work of the Accounting Division, Port Administrative Officers, Accountants, and Staff for their consistent adherence to the Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP).
While adherence to the GAAP “demands great effort,” Commissioner Rubio said that with their “expertise and willingness to uphold these rules and standards, you have ensured that our financial statements are truthful, transparent, and accurate.”
CIIS Director Verne Enciso said the recognition of their work further solidifies their dedication to fulfilling the directive of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to protect the country’s borders and intensify the campaign against smuggling.
“If anything, the good commissioner’s words are proof that we are on the right track. For us in the CIIS, our commitment to our people remains steadfast. We leave no room for these smuggling organizations and their activities. It is high time for our people to realize we are on their side,” he added.
For Rubio, the milestones of the bureau’s different departments demonstrate their hard work.
“Each one of you has shown commitment to the values and principles of the Bureau of Customs, and for that, I am genuinely grateful. I call upon you to remain faithful to the service,” he said.
“Together, let us continue to push boundaries, break new ground, and uphold excellence, accountability, and the protection of our nation’s interests,” he added.