MANILA – The Bureau of Customs (BOC) launched its first Collectors’ Conference for 2026 on January 22, with Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno issuing directives to ensure consistent delivery of the agency’s core mandates, including revenue collection, trade facilitation, and border enforcement.

“This conference is our first step for the year to pursue our common mission of delivering the targets starting this month alongside the reforms. Perform well and I will support you, because your success is my success and the success of the entire Bureau,” Nepomuceno said, underscoring the shared mission and commitment to performance and reform.

The Commissioner highlighted a priority framework anchored on Integrity, Accountability, and Modernization, in line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s good governance agenda. He emphasized that these principles are key to building a customs administration that is transparent, efficient, and responsive to national development needs.

The conference discussions focused on operational priorities such as performance assessment, strategic direction setting, adoption of best practices, enforcement coordination, and policy reforms aimed at delivering timely, reliable, and efficient customs services to support economic stability and lawful trade.

District Collector Atty. Yasmin O. Mapa of Ninoy Aquino International Airport, the host of the conference, emphasized the importance of shared commitment and translating policies into action. “I trust that we will all learn from today’s discussions and commit to being ready to put into practice the policies and initiatives that will move us toward a world-class customs administration,” she said.

Certificates of commendation were awarded to collection districts and ports that exceeded revenue targets in November and December 2025. Recognized districts included NAIA, Batangas, Clark, Cagayan de Oro, and Zamboanga, while Davao, Aparri, Limay, and Cebu ports were cited for surpassing targets in both months.

Moving forward, the BOC aims to translate leadership directives into concrete action across all ports and offices, ensuring consistent enforcement, streamlined processes, and heightened accountability. Through sustained coordination, data-driven decision-making, and continued modernization, the Bureau seeks to strengthen customs operations, support lawful trade, protect consumers, and uphold the public interest.