MICP cited for contributions in Customs’ revenue, enforcement efforts

THE Manila International Container Port (MICP) under District Collector Atty. Felipe Geoffrey De Vera IV, continues to play its role as key contributor in the overall collection effort by the Bureau of Customs (BOC) with revenue contribution of more than 20 percent since the start of the year as the agency focuses its attention in achieving its milestone revenue target of ₱1 trillion by the end of the year.

“I commend MICP personnel and partners for their sustained efforts in safeguarding government revenue, protecting our borders, and facilitating legitimate trade. Their dedication helps advance the Bureau’s mandate and serve the public.

“Maraming salamat sa inyong tapat na paglilingkod sa bayan. Patuloy nating paiigtingin ang mga hakbang na ito,” reads a statement from Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno.

Official data showed that in the first nine months of the year, the MICP generated ₱184.33 billion in revenue, up 6.42 percent from the ₱173.20 billion recorded in the same period last year. The increase translated to an additional ₱11.14 billion in government revenue.

The figure comprised more than 20 percent of the BOC’s overall collection for the same period that reached ₱757.406 billion.

Collection targets were exceeded in February, April, June, and July, with July posting the Port’s highest monthly collection at ₱23.25 billion.

Public auction proceeds also climbed, reaching ₱1.76 million in September 2026, up 58 percent from ₱1.11 million for the same month last year.

The amount does not yet include the additional ₱18.38 million in auction proceeds for October that brings the MICP’s non-traditional revenue collection to more than ₱ 35 million since the start of the year.

De Vera also reported that in compliance with the Customs Chief’s directive, MICP also initiated the destruction of more than ₱179 million worth of smuggled cigarettes and dried tobacco loaded in 5 container vans.

The destruction was undertaken during a 3-days period from September 20 to October 2 at an accredited disposal facility in Porac, Pampanga, De Vera said.

The official stressed these initiatives form part of their commitment to the ‘IAM Customs Movement’ initiated by Commissioner Nepomuceno anchored on Integrity. Accountability and Modernization.

The Port’s enforcement efforts on the other hand, resulted in 52 seizure-related cases involving dangerous drugs, illicit cigarettes, vape products, undeclared goods, and other regulated commodities.

Among the largest operations was the inspection of 23 containers carrying around 29,900 master cases of cigarettes valued at ₱1.716 billion.

Authorities also seized tobacco manufacturing equipment, raw materials, and finished products worth ₱48.88 million, while separate operations targeted undeclared vape products and other regulated shipments.

To make customs services more accessible, MICP maintained its Customer Care Center and OFW Help Desk, which assist overseas Filipino workers and other clients with customs-related concerns and inquiries.

Outside its core functions, MICP carried out community outreach and feeding activities under its corporate social responsibility (CSR) programs.

Port of Batangas earns praise from Governor Santos.

Meanwhile, Batangas Governor Vilma Santos-Recto commended the Port of Batangas under District Collector Carmelita ‘Mimel’ Talusan, in recognition of the POB’s role in supporting trade and economic growth in the province.

The commendation follows the Port’s historic achievement in September 2026, when it collected ₱24.540 billion, exceeding its target of ₱22.642 billion by ₱1.898 billion, or 8.38 percent.

This marked the highest monthly revenue collection in the Port’s history, surpassing its previous record of ₱24.208 billion set in July 2026.

“The Provincial Government of Batangas commends the Bureau of Customs–Port of Batangas for its outstanding revenue performance and continuing efforts to promote ease of doing business.

“Efficient and transparent customs operations are essential in supporting our business community, facilitating legitimate trade, and sustaining Batangas’ economic growth,” reads the commendation Governor Santos that she handed out to Talusan during the latter’s courtesy call recently.