Marcos Directs New Customs Chief to Protect PH Borders
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has tasked the new Customs Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno to strengthen the protection of the country’s borders and intensify efforts against smuggling, officials said Tuesday. As the newly appointed head of the Bureau of Customs, Nepomuceno took his oath on Monday, succeeding former Commissioner Bienvenido Rubio.
“The marching order, first and foremost, is to strengthen border protection and fight smuggling. The government has already begun a more intensified campaign against smuggling,” a Palace spokesperson stated in Filipino.
The leadership change comes amid the Marcos administration’s ongoing review of government officials. Although the specific reasons behind the reshuffle were not disclosed, it aims to enhance public service for Filipinos, local sources indicated.
Cleaning Up Customs: Leadership Changes and Renewed Focus
Alongside Commissioner Rubio, five other Bureau of Customs officials, including collectors, deputy commissioners, and directors, were relieved from their duties. This move aligns with President Marcos’ earlier call for Cabinet members to submit courtesy resignations as part of a broader government reorganization.
This administrative shakeup signals the administration’s commitment to curb smuggling and secure the nation’s borders more effectively. The Bureau of Customs plays a vital role in regulating the flow of goods into the Philippines, and the new leadership is expected to advance this mission with renewed vigor.
Ongoing Campaign Against Smuggling
The intensified campaign against smuggling reflects a strategic effort to protect local industries and safeguard government revenues. Officials emphasized that the fight against illicit trade remains a top priority under the new leadership.
“Whatever the reason behind the President’s decision, it was likely made with the intention of improving public service for the people,” a government insider remarked.
As Commissioner Nepomuceno steps into his role, expectations are high for decisive actions to secure the Philippines’ borders and crack down on smuggling operations.
For more news and updates on government efforts against smuggling and border protection, visit Filipinokami.com.