BOC chief warns personnel linked to seized cigarette theft

Bureau of Customs (BOC) Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno has warned of the immediate dismissal of any personnel involved in the theft or unauthorized removal of confiscated illicit cigarettes, as he ordered tighter security measures in all BOC ports nationwide.

In a memorandum dated August 3, 2026, Nepomuceno directed all District Commanders of the Enforcement and Security Service (ESS) and Chiefs of the Auction and Cargo Disposal Division (ACDD) to strengthen monitoring and security protocols over confiscated illicit cigarettes following reports of attempted theft of seized goods under BOC custody.

The memorandum requires stricter control of storage facilities, regulated and documented access to confiscated goods, and the immediate reporting of any suspicious activity, attempted breach, loss, or inventory discrepancy to the Office of the Commissioner.

Nepomuceno also ordered that no confiscated illicit cigarettes shall be transferred, relocated, or disposed of without his prior written approval.

He reiterated the BOC’s One-Strike Policy under OCOM Memorandum No. 87-2026, warning that any official or employee found to have participated in, facilitated, tolerated, or enabled the theft of confiscated cigarettes will be immediately relieved from service and face administrative, civil, and criminal charges.

The Commissioner said confiscated illicit cigarettes are the result of anti-smuggling operations and serve as vital evidence in the Bureau’s campaign to protect government revenue.

He stressed that any attempt to compromise the security and integrity of seized goods will not be tolerated.

Nepomuceno also instructed the Internal Administration Group, together with the Enforcement Group, Assessment and Operations Coordinating Group, and Intelligence Group, to submit within five days recommendations on additional personnel, equipment, facilities, logistics, monitoring systems, and other support needed to secure confiscated illicit cigarettes in all ports.

The BOC said the directive forms part of its continuing efforts to safeguard seized goods and strengthen accountability in its campaign against smuggling, corruption, and other unlawful activities. VITO BARCELO JR.