MANILA – Bureau of Customs (BOC) Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno on Friday reminded agency personnel that the bureau’s one-strike policy remains in force as the government steps up its campaign against smuggling.

Marking the start of his second year as BOC chief, Nepomuceno warned that employees found involved in corruption, smuggling or any act that compromises the integrity of the bureau could be immediately relieved or removed from their posts.

He also called on the public to report suspected smuggling activities through the bureau’s “Isumbong Kay Commissioner” platform.

“The fight against smuggling is not the Bureau of Customs’ battle alone. If you have information, report it. Through ‘Isumbong Kay Commissioner,’ every credible tip can help us uncover smuggling activities and hold violators accountable,” Nepomuceno said in a news release.

The commissioner also declared an all-out war against smugglers, saying the bureau would intensify its efforts to go after violators while ensuring accountability among its personnel.

“Let the recent apprehensions of illicit cigarettes worth billions be a declaration of war against smuggling activities and the strict enforcement of a zero-tolerance policy on our personnel,” the Commissioner said.

Nepomuceno directed all collection districts to strengthen intelligence gathering, risk profiling and enforcement operations, while enhancing coordination with the Philippine Coast Guard, Philippine Navy, Philippine National Police, National Bureau of Investigation, local government units and other law enforcement agencies.

“There is no longer any room for complacency. As smugglers evolve their methods, Customs must be faster, smarter, and more coordinated. That is why we will further intensify intelligence-sharing and joint operations with our partner agencies to thwart these illegal activities and hold those behind them accountable,” he said.

He added that the bureau would continue pursuing reforms while stepping up its operations.

“While we continue advancing modernization and digitalization, hindi tayo maghihintay para kumilos (we will not wait to act). We have to level up our operations now and maintain the momentum of our reforms,” he said.