MANILA — Bureau of Customs (BOC) Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno is set to leave the agency after generating ₱1.327 trillion in duties and taxes and overseeing the seizure of ₱50.93 billion worth of illicit and smuggled goods during his tenure.

Nepomuceno, who assumed office in July 2025, pursued reforms under his Integrity, Accountability, and Modernization (IAM) agenda, focusing on revenue generation, border protection, digitalization, and improved public service.

From July 2025 to October 2026, the BOC collected ₱1.327 trillion in duties and taxes, while its collections from January to October 2026 reached ₱853.662 billion, exceeding the target for the period by ₱7.14 billion.

The agency also conducted 1,452 enforcement and intelligence operations under his leadership, resulting in the confiscation of ₱50.93 billion worth of illegal and smuggled commodities.

These operations targeted illicit drugs, counterfeit products, unsafe goods, and other prohibited items entering the country.

Aside from revenue collection and enforcement, Nepomuceno pursued administrative reforms aimed at reducing bureaucratic requirements and improving customs services.

One of the major changes under his administration was the extension of the validity of Customs accreditation for importers, customs brokers, and exporters from one year to three years, easing compliance requirements for legitimate stakeholders.

His administration also advanced digitalization, streamlined customs procedures, and expanded opportunities for public engagement.

Through the IAM Movement, the BOC likewise introduced policies promoting ethical conduct, transparency, and professionalism among its personnel, alongside efforts to strengthen employee development.

In his message ahead of the leadership transition, Nepomuceno credited Customs personnel nationwide for the agency’s accomplishments, saying the reforms and operational gains were products of collective effort.

“Thank you, everyone, for your support and dedication as we worked together toward our shared goal of transforming the Bureau of Customs. Because of your commitment and hard work, we have accomplished so much, and our institution today is stronger, more respected, and better understood by the public,” he said.

He also urged BOC personnel to extend the same cooperation and commitment to his successor to sustain the agency’s reform initiatives.

“I ask that you extend to him the same trust, cooperation, and commitment that you have generously given me, so that together you can bring the Bureau of Customs to even greater heights,” Nepomuceno said.

As he prepares to turn over the leadership, the outgoing commissioner expressed confidence that the reforms and institutional improvements introduced during his administration would continue beyond his tenure.

The BOC credited his leadership with strengthening the agency’s organizational culture and reinforcing its commitment to integrity, accountability, modernization, and public service.