Stricter monitoring and technical assessments of imported goods—rather than higher import volumes—likely drove the Bureau of Customs (BOC) past its ₱82-billion revenue target for July, according to its chief.

Speaking to reporters during the turnover of proceeds from forfeited luxury vehicles, BOC Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno said the country’s second-largest tax collection agency was tracking ₱2 billion above its monthly target three days before the end of July.

“Collection isn’t over yet,” Nepomuceno said, noting that the bureau still needed to rake in another ₱10 billion to lock in its overall ₱82-billion goal.

He emphasized that revenue growth was driven by stricter assessment of Philippine-bound shipments rather than increased trade volume.

“We’re importing practically the same items and volume. What’s happening right now is strict assessment—that’s the main driver,” Nepomuceno explained. “Even if volume drops, collections still rise because of proper assessment.”

To maintain its running surplus, Nepomuceno noted that the government needs to average more than ₱3 billion daily through the end of the month.

Separately, the Department of Finance (DOF) turned over ₱205 million to the Bureau of the Treasury (BTr) from the BOC's negotiated sale of two forfeited Bugatti Chiron supercars.

Finance Secretary Frederick D. Go noted that the vehicles were finally disposed of after two years in government custody.

“After nearly two years, we have completed the sale of these forfeited vehicles, ensuring that every asset under our stewardship is properly managed to generate value for the Filipino people,” Go said.

According to the DOF, the remittance comprised ₱101.5 million from a 2017 Blue Bugatti Chiron and ₱103.5 million from a 2019 Red Bugatti Chiron.

Nepomuceno added that since initiating the disposal of seized luxury vehicles linked to the Discaya family in the second half of 2025, the BOC has generated over ₱800 million in total proceeds, including pending payments.

The agency exceeded its midyear program by collecting ₱491.9 billion—a 7.2 percent year-on-year increase. Growth was supported by a 10.3 percent rise in value-added tax (VAT) collections amid higher oil prices, offsetting lower excise tax collections caused by reduced import volumes and tax suspensions on LPG and kerosene.

The BOC is tasked with reaching an ambitious ₱1-trillion revenue target in 2026.