The Bureau of Customs’ Enforcement and Security Service (ESS) said Friday it seized P25.6 billion in smuggled goods in the first quarter of 2025 —an almost 40-percent increase from the same period last year.
It said that on 2024, the agency confiscated P85-billion worth of contraband, a testament to its aggressive enforcement campaign.
The agency’s intensified operations also played a key role in the Philippines’ removal from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey list.
It said that through its stringent measures against money laundering and cross-border financial crimes, the ESS intercepted P131.4 million in undeclared currency.
Fuel marking initiatives were also highlighted, with nearly 20 billion liters of imported fuel verified, enabling the collection of P242.4 billion in lawful duties and taxes.
Meanwhile, the campaign against illegal drugs led to the seizure of over P2 billion worth of narcotics and the filing of 164 cases for prosecution.
Customs Commissioner Bienvenido Rubio lauded the ESS for its contributions to national security. Drawing from his own experience as a former special agent, Rubio expressed solidarity with the unit’s personnel and recognized their sacrifices and dedication.
ESS acting director Isabelo Tibayan III extended gratitude to the commissioner for his continued support, which includes the procurement of modern rifles and pistols, chemical analyzers, and funding for the repair and improvement of ESS headquarters.