THE Bureau of Customs (BoC) said it seized a total of P61.71 billion worth of smuggled goods in 2025, as authorities tightened border security to curb illicit threats that erode revenue collections.
Preliminary data from the BoC showed that it confiscated P61.71-billion smuggled goods from 1,024 enforcement operations last year, it said in a statement on Wednesday.
These included P28.47 billion worth of general commodities, P17.72 billion in counterfeit goods, P5.63 billion in dangerous drugs, P4.80 billion in wildlife and natural resources, and P1.86 billion in tobacco products.
“From dismantling smuggling networks and enforcing strict integrity policies to ensuring the proper disposition of seized goods and strengthening the Fuel Marking Program, the Bureau of Customs remains firmly committed to transparent enforcement that protects government revenue, legitimate trade, and the welfare of the Filipino people,” BoC Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno said.
Customs also rolled out 85 seizure operations involving agricultural products, resulting in the confiscation of more than P622 million worth of smuggled agricultural goods.
“These enforcement actions helped protect public health, maintain fair market conditions, and safeguard government revenue,” the BoC said.
Customs is tasked with meeting a higher revenue goal of P1.0138 trillion in 2026, after falling short of its P958.7-billion target in 2025.
The BoC also revoked or suspended the accreditation of 40 importers and 12 customs brokers found to have violated customs laws and regulations.
It also filed 64 criminal cases with the Department of Justice, including 31 cases involving agricultural smuggling.
The BoC said 10 involved violations of the Anti-Agri Smuggling Act and 21 of the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act, noting its zero-tolerance policy against illicit trade and customs violations.
Under its Fuel Marking Program, Customs marked 21.1 billion liters of fuel last year and generated P247.12 billion in tax revenue.
“The program remains a key measure in detecting fuel smuggling, ensuring transparency in fuel distribution, and promoting fair competition in the oil industry,” it said. — Aubrey Rose A. Inosante