The Bureau of Customs (BOC) has every reason to celebrate as a familiar and respected figure makes his much-anticipated return: Deputy Commissioner for Internal Administration Group (IAG), Mike Fermin.
Dep. Comm. Mike isn’t a stranger to the BOC. A former Director of IAG and Officer-in-Charge Deputy Commissioner of both the IAG and MISTG, he has long been admired for his mastery of internal administration and customs operations.
But who exactly is Mike Fermin? Hailing from the distinguished Fermin family of Bulacan—known for their integrity and legacy of public service—he once served as a party-list representative. He built a reputation rooted in transparency and dedication.
It’s no wonder Commissioner Bien Rubio and President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. have complete confidence in him. His official appointment was confirmed through a memorandum dated April 2, 2025, signed by Executive Secretary and retired Chief Justice Lucas P. Bersamin and addressed to Finance Secretary Ralph Recto. The document formally transmitted Fermin’s appointment as Deputy Commissioner, succeeding Erwin T. Mendoza.
The return of Mike Fermin brings renewed hope and strengthened leadership to the Bureau. To all newly appointed officials: let’s embrace the trust placed in us. Let us serve with honor and humility, always remembering that public service is a privilege, not a right. And to those whose chapters at the BOC are closing—know that every ending leads to a new beginning. Trust in God’s greater plans.
BOC reshuffling: New roles, fresh opportunities
Change is stirring within the Bureau and being met with open arms.
The recent reshuffling within the BOC is seen not as disruption but as a door to growth, showcasing the talent and dedication of its officers across different divisions.
Congratulations to Director III Ronnie I. Prinsipe! In a short span of time, he rose from Collector VI to Director III, a testament to his skill, hard work, and loyalty. After serving at the Office of the Commissioner, he returns to the X-ray Inspection Project under the Intelligence Group, led by the capable Deputy Commissioner Gen. Juvymax Uy.
Given Dir. Prinsipe’s keen expertise in surveillance and anti-smuggling operations, he is expected to be a strong partner to Dep. Comm. Uy in securing our borders.
Cheers as well to Director Atty. Marlon Broto is heading the Port of Operations Service under the Assessment and Operations Coordination Group (AOCG) with Deputy Commissioner Atty. As his mentor, Vener Baquiran, said, the collaboration between these two brilliant legal minds promises strong leadership in compliance and port operations.
Lastly, congratulations to Atty. Geniefelle P. Lagmay on her appointment as Deputy Collector for Assessment at the Port of Clark. She’ll team up with District Collector Jairus Reyes—another sharp and dynamic leader.
This reshuffling, formalized on April 21, 2025, by Commissioner Bien Rubio’s signature and Finance Secretary Ralph Recto’s approval, signals an exciting new chapter for the Bureau.
To all our friends at the BOC: continue to serve with passion, competence, and integrity. The nation is counting on you!
