Customs Brokers Arrested in ₱1.9 Million Extortion Case
Two customs brokers were arrested on June 3 for allegedly trying to extort ₱1.9 million from a local freight forwarder. This case exposes a common form of corruption known as “grease money” within the shipping industry.
The arrest was a coordinated effort between the Bureau of Customs’ Customs Intelligence and Investigation Services at the Manila International Container Port and the National Bureau of Investigation’s Anti-Organized and Transnational Crime Division. Authorities apprehended the two suspects, who are sisters, at a coffee shop in Ermita, Manila.
Swift Action Following Complaint
BOC-CIIS Director Verne Enciso emphasized the importance of the quick response from both agencies, which led to the arrest just one day after the freight forwarder filed a complaint. The freight forwarder was given a deadline until June 3 to pay an additional ₱1.9 million on top of the ₱500,000 already paid for shipment processing.
Customs Deputy Commissioner for Intelligence Group, Juvymax Uy, explained that the freight forwarder initially paid the suspects ₱500,000 as an “all-inclusive engagement fee,” covering broker fees as well as customs duties and taxes. However, when the shipment arrived, the brokers informed the complainant that the cargo was being held and would face a Warrant of Seizure and Detention unless the extra ₱1.9 million was paid.
Grease Money Scheme Explained
The brokers claimed the additional ₱1.9 million was “grease money” needed to secure release from various offices. They issued an ultimatum that failure to pay by June 3, 2025, would result in the shipment being seized.
Customs Commissioner Bien Rubio expressed disappointment over how the freight forwarder was victimized. He praised the arrest as a vital step in exposing brokers who extort money by falsely implicating BOC officers. Rubio noted that such schemes have been a long-running tactic for brokers to pocket illicit fees while tarnishing the agency’s reputation.
He affirmed his full support for operations aimed at holding corrupt brokers accountable. The goal is to protect honest businesses and restore the integrity of customs officers.
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