News Release

Palace backs BOC’s move to require personnel to declare relatives in customs brokerage industry



Malacañang on Friday expressed full support for the Bureau of Customs’ (BOC) efforts to eliminate corruption and enhance transparency by requiring all personnel to disclose any family relationship—by consanguinity or affinity up to the fourth civil degree—with individuals connected to the customs brokerage industry.

In a press briefing, Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro emphasized the significance of BOC Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno’s Anti-Conflict of Interest Memorandum, noting that it reflects President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to uphold integrity in public service.

“Nilalayon ng nasabing polisiya na paigtingin ang good governance at transparency sa ahensiya,” Castro said.

Nepomuceno, acting on the President’s directive, reaffirmed that the Bureau will prioritize the public’s interest above all else.

“Ipinag-utos ng Pangulo na panahon na upang itigil ang sistemang nagbibigay-daan sa korapsiyon at ibang hindi magagandang gawain sa loob ng ahensiya. Gagawing prayoridad ng bureau ang kapakanan ng bayan at hindi ang pansariling interes ng iilan,” Castro added, quoting Nepomuceno.

The memorandum prohibits all BOC employees from engaging in any business or financial interest related to Customs brokerage operations.

In addition, all personnel are required to submit a verified affidavit to the Office of the Commissioner, disclosing any family relationship—by consanguinity or affinity — within the fourth civil degree with individuals connected to the Customs brokerage industry.

Castro said that this policy aligns with the President’s broader push for institutional reforms.

“Ang hakbang na ito ay pagpapatupad sa adbokasiya ni Pangulong Marcos Jr. na patatagin ang transparency at good governance sa bansa,” Castro said. | PND