Finance chief flies to Cebu for working visit

DEPARTMENT Of Finance (DOF) Secretary Frederick Go visited the Port of Cebu for a working visit to personally inspect seized smuggled cigarettes and discussed operational updates and revenue performance of the country’s premier gateway in the Visayas.

The statement released by the Bureau of Customs on August 17 said the Finance Secretary was joined during his visit by Assessment and Operations Coordinating Group (AOCG) Deputy Commissioner Atty. Agaton Teodoro O. Uvero, DOF Undersecretary Atty. Rolando T. Ligon, BOC Legal Service Director Atty. Victor Pablo C. Trinidad, District Collector Atty. Zsae Carrie C. De Guzman, and other officials of the Port of Cebu and the Bureau of Internal Revenue.

During a working lunch, Collector De Guzman and the BIR briefed Secretary Go on their respective accomplishments, revenue performance, operational developments, and priority initiatives.

Following the briefing, Secretary Frederick Go and the officials proceeded to the Cebu International Port to inspect seized containers containing illicit cigarettes.

The inspection highlighted the government’s continuing efforts to combat illicit trade, protect legitimate businesses, and safeguard government revenues through strengthened enforcement and inter-agency coordination.

“I assure everybody that the Department of Finance is fully supporting the Bureau of Customs and the Bureau of Internal Revenue in their efforts. We will continue to strengthen enforcement and hold those who engage in illegal activities accountable,” Secretary Frederick Go said.