The Bureau of Customs (BOC) warns the public and stakeholders about fraudulent individuals impersonating Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno and other BOC officials to solicit money in exchange for alleged “special treatment” or expedited processing of shipments.
The BOC has received reports regarding a solicitation scheme called “Enrollment” falsely attributed to the agency. This scheme claims to offer preferential treatment to importers and brokers who pay grease money.
For the record, this is not a BOC program and Nepomuceno strongly condemns this illicit activity and categorically denies any involvement in this or any other similar solicitation scheme.
“The Bureau of Customs, under my leadership, will never tolerate or condone any form of extortion, bribery, or solicitation in exchange for special favors,” the BOC chief said.
“Any attempt to exploit the BOC’s name or my position for personal gain is a direct assault on the integrity of our institution.”
“Any attempt to exploit the BOC’s name or my position for personal gain is a direct assault on the integrity of our institution, and it will be met with swift and uncompromising action,” the BOC head added.
“I will not allow these schemes to take root or persist under my leadership.”
“I will not allow these schemes to take root or persist under my leadership,” he stressed.
In response to these reports, the BOC has initiated an investigation to identify and hold accountable those behind the scheme.
Stakeholders are also reminded that despite prior warnings, any person who chooses to engage with or act on these fraudulent offers assumes full responsibility for the consequences, including potential criminal prosecution under existing laws. Compliance with BOC regulations and caution against such schemes is strongly advised.
Nepomuceno has also directed all BOC personnel to uphold the highest standards of integrity and warned that any involvement in such schemes will result in immediate administrative and criminal sanctions.
The Customs Commissioner urges stakeholders and the public to remain vigilant and immediately report any suspicious offers or solicitations related to this scheme through the BOC’s Customer Assistance and Response Services (BOC-CARES) via hotline 8705-6000 or email at complaints@customs.gov.ph.
The BOC remains steadfast in its commitment to transparency, accountability, and the strict enforcement of customs laws. Under Commissioner Nepomuceno’s leadership, the BOC is working to eliminate corruption and restore public trust.
