By PCO · Oct 20, 2026 12:00:00 AM · 1 week ago
Malacañang expressed support for the Bureau of Customs' (BOC) proposed budget to strengthen its anti-smuggling operations, including acquiring equipment and machinery to enhance border security.
"Kung ano po iyong proposed budget for the BOC, iyon po sana ang matupad," Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro said during a Palace press briefing on Tuesday.
The BOC proposed budget was Php29.9 billion, but the House of Representatives approved Php5.9 billion. The bureau raised concerns that the cut could hamper its automation program and efforts to establish an effective border control system against agricultural smuggling.
In an October 5 report, the BOC achieved a record-high collection of PhP757.4 billion in its nine-month target.
Castro cited the BOC's accomplishments under Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno, particularly its seizure of contraband and illegal drugs and its sustained collection of duties and taxes.
The Palace Press Officer urged lawmakers to consider the agency's funding requirements as Congress deliberates on the proposed 2027 national budget, particularly its need for equipment and machinery to combat smuggling. | PND
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