Bureau of Customs (BOC), Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno has issued a groundbreaking directive prohibiting all BOC officials, employees, and personnel from having any business or financial involvement in Customs Brokerage operations in a decisive move to bolster good governance and transparency within the bureau.
Announced on 10 July 2025, this sweeping policy is in direct response to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s call for heightened ethical standards in public service. It marks a significant milestone in the agency’s continuing campaign to root out conflicts of interest and ensure impartiality in all facets of its operations.
The new memorandum, hailed as one of the most comprehensive anti-conflict of interest policies in the agency’s history, reinforces the constitutional and statutory principles found in Section 13, Article VI of the 1987 Philippine Constitution, and Section 3(i) of Republic Act No. 6713 (Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees). It strictly bars any public servant from engaging in private business or enterprise that undermines their neutrality and public responsibilities.
Expanding upon Section 12, Rule XVIII of the Revised Civil Service Rules, which already restricts full-time government employees from engaging in private enterprises without formal approval, the BOC directive enforces a total prohibition on involvement—whether direct or indirect—in Customs Brokerage activities. This includes serving as an owner, incorporator, shareholder, partner, advisor, consultant, or in any similar role that could pose a conflict of interest.
To ensure full transparency and compliance, all BOC personnel are now required to submit a verified affidavit to the Office of the Commissioner within ten (10) days of the directive’s release. This affidavit must disclose any relatives up to the fourth civil degree of consanguinity or affinity who are connected to Customs Brokerage firms, regardless of whether these firms are active, defunct, or have previously divested interests. Full disclosure of names, business addresses, and contact information of the associated brokerage entities is mandatory.
Even past involvements dating back up to five years—such as previous ownership, corporate affiliations, or relationships with now-closed brokerages—must be reported. This measure seeks to close potential loopholes and prevent any future conflict or perception of impropriety.
Commissioner Nepomuceno underscored that the policy aligns with existing internal guidelines, particularly Customs Memorandum Orders 25-2010 and 23-2008, and reaffirms the Bureau’s Integrity Action Plan, especially Section 9, which prohibits officials from maintaining relationships or interests with entities they regulate.
Non-compliance with the policy will lead to disciplinary sanctions under applicable laws and administrative regulations.
“This measure is not just about compliance—it’s about credibility,” said Commissioner Nepomuceno. “The Bureau of Customs is taking a firm stand: there is no room for conflicting interests in our ranks. Public trust is earned through transparency and unwavering integrity.”
The BOC urges all personnel to comply promptly with the directive and remain steadfast in upholding the values of honesty, neutrality, and professionalism in service of the Filipino people.