BOC donates funds to help build schools, bridges in calamity-hit areas
INQUIRER FILES
MANILA, Philippines — The Bureau of Customs (BOC) has donated funds to help rebuild communities affected by natural disasters, the agency said on Wednesday.
BOC Commissioner Bien Rubio led the donation turnover to the GMA Kapuso Foundation (GMAKF), which will use the funds to construct schools and bridges in calamity-stricken areas, particularly in Camarines Sur.
“This generous contribution was made even more meaningful by the selfless gesture of IG personnel, who voluntarily pooled a portion of their Christmas bonuses to support the cause,” Rubio said in a statement.
The donation was part of the BOC’s Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service (CIIS) 38th founding anniversary celebration on January 27.
GMAKF Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Rikki Escudero-Catibog accepted the donation and thanked the BOC for its support.
Article continues after this advertisementAside from the donation, the BOC recognized top-performing offices within its intelligence group.
Article continues after this advertisementManila Field Station chief Alvin Enciso was commended for leading the Manila International Container Port (CIIS-MICP), which was named the best field station after seizing P60.5-billion contraband in 2024, according to the BOC.
READ: BOC intercepts undeclared foreign currency worth Php 24.20M
Rubio also highlighted the BOC intelligence group’s intensified anti-smuggling efforts, noting the P85.167- billion confiscated goods in 2024.
“For nearly four decades, CIIS has been on the frontlines, serving as the intelligence and investigation arm of the Bureau of Customs,” he said.
Rubio also stressed the need for continued vigilance against evolving smuggling tactics.
“We must reinforce our anti-smuggling drive, bearing in mind that safeguarding our society is paramount,” he added.