NINE Bureau of Customs (BOC) personnel have been relieved of their duties following an alleged extortion incident at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (Naia) Terminal 3 in Pasay City.
The incident, which occurred in June 2025, is under investigation by the Internal Inquiry Division of the Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service (CIIS), according to Customs Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno.
Commissioner Nepomuceno emphasized the BOC’s zero-tolerance policy towards misconduct, stating that the involved personnel were removed from their posts pending the outcome of the investigation.
“We take these matters seriously and there will be no leniency for personnel who abuse their position,” the BOC declared in an official statement. The commissioner further highlighted the implementation of a new 24-hour complaint reporting policy to ensure swift action on personnel misconduct.
A memorandum issued on July 24, 2025, mandates that all formal written complaints against BOC personnel be reported to the Commissioner’s office within 24 hours.
Each report must include detailed spot or incident reports, along with supporting documents and evidence. This measure aims to strengthen internal discipline and promote transparency within the BOC. The investigation into the June extortion allegations is ongoing.
