MANILA — The Bureau of Customs (BOC) has warned the public and stakeholders about individuals impersonating Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno and other officials to solicit money in exchange for supposed “special treatment” or faster processing of shipments.

The agency said it received reports of a scheme called “Enrollment,” falsely attributed to the BOC, which claims to provide preferential treatment to importers and brokers who pay grease money. The bureau clarified that this is not an official program.

“The Bureau of Customs, under my leadership, will never tolerate or condone any form of extortion, bribery, or solicitation in exchange for special favors,” Nepomuceno said. “Any attempt to exploit the BOC’s name or my position for personal gain is a direct assault on the integrity of our institution, and it will be met with swift and uncompromising action. I will not allow these schemes to take root or persist under my leadership.”

The BOC said it has launched an investigation to identify those behind the scheme and reminded stakeholders that engaging in fraudulent offers could lead to criminal prosecution.

Nepomuceno also directed customs personnel to maintain the highest standards of integrity, warning that any involvement in such schemes will result in immediate administrative and criminal sanctions.

The public was urged to report suspicious solicitations through the BOC’s Customer Assistance and Response Services (BOC-CARES) via hotline 8705-6000 or email at complaints@customs.gov.ph.

The bureau said it remains committed to transparency, accountability, and eliminating corruption to restore public trust.