Marcos Jr instructs new BOC chief to boost border security

President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr. has instructed the new Bureau of Customs (BOC) chief, Ariel Nepomuceno, to enhance border protection and intensify the government's campaign against smuggling.

Palace Press Officer Undersecretary Atty. Claire Castro stated that the President aims for better service from agency heads and emphasized the need to strengthen border security and fight smuggling during a press briefing on Tuesday.

Castro clarified that the decision to replace former BOC Commissioner Bienvenido Rubio is focused on improving public service, without specifying dissatisfaction with Rubio's leadership.

Six officials, including Rubio, were removed from their positions at the BOC as part of this transition.

Nepomuceno, a veteran in customs affairs and former Office of Civil Defense Administrator, was sworn in as the new BOC chief on Monday.