DEPARTMENT of Finance Secretary Frederick Go did not hold back in praising the Bureau of Customs for its impressive contribution in raising revenue for the government during the first quarter of the year’
In a statement released by his office last April 9, the Finance Chief said the bureau’s strong performance “reflects strengthened governance and sustained gains from reforms.”
“The Bureau of Customs’ highest-ever first-quarter collection demonstrates that our commitment to reforms, transparency, and accountability is delivering real results.
“These gains will directly support the government’s priority programs and benefit the Filipino people,” Secretary Go said.
“This performance places the first quarter of 2026 among the Bureau’s top-performing periods, surpassed only by the July to September collections in 2025, which likewise recorded a historic high under the current leadership,” the Finance secretary noted further.
Secretary Go was referencing Commissioner Nepomuceno’s first three months in office since his appointment last July 2025.
A key driver of this outcome was the bureau’s intensified campaign against illegal trade. First-quarter revenues were bolstered by the successful public auction of forfeited goods—particularly smuggled high-end vehicles—effectively converting illicit assets into public revenue.
These efforts were complemented by strengthened post-clearance audit operations, reinforcing compliance with customs laws and ensuring the accurate payment of duties and taxes.
“Every peso we collect helps fund essential services, advance national development, and build a better future for every Filipino,” Secretary Go added.