Suspension of Letters of Authority and Mission Orders
MANILA, Philippines – Newly appointed Bureau of Customs (BOC) Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno has ordered the suspension of all previously approved but unserved letters of authority (LOAs) and mission orders (MOs). This decisive move aims to restore discipline within operations and ensure lawful enforcement.
The four-word keyphrase letters of authority and mission appears early as the directive halts implementation of these orders, which allow customs officers to demand proof of duty and tax payments on imported goods, as mandated by Section 224 of the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (CMTA).
Understanding Letters of Authority and Mission Orders
An LOA authorizes customs personnel to inspect goods openly for sale or in storage. Meanwhile, an MO is a written instruction from the Commissioner or other authorized officials directing deputized officers to carry out specific tasks.
On July 2, Commissioner Nepomuceno issued a memorandum instructing deputy commissioners to submit a comprehensive report within 24 hours detailing the status of all LOAs and MOs issued between January 1 and June 30, 2025.
Restoring Discipline and Transparency in Customs Operations
The suspension applies to all unserved LOAs and MOs issued before July 2, covering units under the Intelligence and Enforcement Groups. This measure is part of a broader effort to prevent unauthorized or outdated enforcement actions and strengthen transparency.
“We are implementing this step to clearly determine what actions are still pending and to ensure that all enforcement efforts are legally sound, properly documented, and aligned with the Bureau’s direction moving forward,” Nepomuceno stated.
Aligning with National Anti-Smuggling Efforts
The Bureau of Customs continues to support President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to professionalize government operations and intensify the fight against smuggling and revenue losses. The agency emphasizes its commitment to effective enforcement and institutional reform as part of its core mandate.
By suspending these letters of authority and mission orders, the BOC aims to tighten control over its field operations and reaffirm lawful practices.
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