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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider BOC orders probe, relieves official named in smuggling allegations

BOC orders probe, relieves official named in smuggling allegations

Published Jan 8, 2026 04:59 pm
The Bureau of Customs (BOC) has ordered an investigation into alleged smuggling activities at the Port of Manila and relieved a Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service (CIIS) official pending the outcome of the probe.
In a statement, BOC Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno said CIIS field station chief Paul Oliver Pacunayen was relieved from his post while allegations against him are investigated.
“We will act and investigate all complaints and hold accountable anybody who is found to have committed infractions of law and the ethical standards of public officers,” he said Thursday, Jan. 8.
Nepomuceno said the BOC will formally announce the results of the investigation and impose appropriate penalties, if warranted, after due process.
Deputy Commissioner for Intelligence Romy Rosales has been directed to lead the investigation.
Pacunayen was among those mentioned in a letter sent last month to President Marcos by concerned officials, employees, and stakeholders of the BOC seeking an investigation into alleged smuggling protection and related activities within the CIIS.
The letter, which was also furnished to the Office of the Ombudsman and other agencies, alleged a resurgence of smuggling in several ports, including the Port of Manila, claims that remain unproven and subject to investigation.
Nepomuceno said the BOC leadership takes such complaints seriously, regardless of its assessment of current performance.
“I actually believe that smuggling has been reduced if we will objectively appreciate the collection improvements compared to last year’s performance,” he said.
He added that business groups have recognized improvements at the BOC in terms of ease of doing business, governance, and ongoing reforms.
“However, I treat feedback and complaints seriously,” Nepomuceno said, noting that the investigation is meant to ensure reforms are sustained and institutional integrity is protected.
“I promised this to PBBM (President Marcos), and the country is watching,” he added.

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Bureau of Customs BOC Ariel Nepomuceno
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