Bureau of Customs (BOC) Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno has announced the implementation of a strict one-strike policy targeting personnel involved in corruption and illegal activities.

The policy is part of the agency’s intensified campaign against smuggling and internal misconduct as the bureau strengthens its border protection efforts.

Nepomuceno emphasized that the BOC will maintain a zero-tolerance stance against employees found engaging in corruption, smuggling operations, or any actions that compromise the integrity of the agency.He warned that offenders may face immediate relief from their positions or outright dismissal.

This move comes as the bureau reports continued efforts to combat illicit trade, including recent high-value seizures of illegal cigarettes worth billions of pesos, which the commissioner described as a declaration of war against smuggling syndicates.

The BOC chief also highlighted the evolving tactics of smuggling groups, which now reportedly use alternative routes, private wharves, and vessels to evade customs enforcement.

In response, the agency is upgrading its operational capabilities through stronger intelligence gathering, risk profiling, and coordinated enforcement actions.

Nepomuceno directed all collection districts to intensify intelligence-sharing and strengthen collaboration with key law enforcement agencies such as the Philippine Coast Guard, the Philippine Navy, the Philippine National Police, the National Bureau of Investigation, and local government units.He stressed that modern smuggling requires a faster, smarter, and more coordinated response from government forces.Overall, the policy aims to reinforce discipline within the BOC while boosting national efforts to curb smuggling and protect government revenues.

The commissioner underscored that there is no room for complacency as the agency moves toward more aggressive enforcement and accountability measures.