By Lane Afable, News Editor
The Bureau of Customs (BOC) has ordered to use confiscated goods for nationwide support to communities thru lawful donation to government agencies and partner institutions for distribution to beneficiaries across the country.
The BOC will enhance its donation and disposition efforts to ensure that forfeited assets are effectively utilized for public benefit.
Based on updates presented during the recent Collectors Conference, Director Melon Carlo M. Santiago of the Port Operations Service highlighted initiatives across various ports to process the donation of assorted goods, most of which are essential items ready for immediate community use. These include clothing, footwear, school supplies, tents, and multifunction mobile power supply units.
“These items are intended to provide immediate relief, support education, and strengthen local preparedness, particularly in underserved and disaster-prone areas,” the BOC said.
These essential goods are complemented by other forfeited assets, including petroleum products, vehicles, and vessels, which will be allocated to support broader government operations.
The donation initiatives involve several ports across the country, including the Manila International Container Port (MICP), Port of Manila (POM), Ninoy Aquino International Airport, and the Ports of Batangas, Iloilo, Surigao, Aparri, Legazpi, and Cagayan de Oro.
These confiscated goods will be formally handed over to relevant government agencies, local government units, and accredited partner organizations to ensure their efficient, transparent, and targeted distribution to communities in need, especially those who urgently require assistance and support.
Commissioner Nepomuceno emphasized that the BOC remains committed to ensuring that forfeited goods are properly utilized for the benefit of communities and government programs instead of being left idle or wasted.
“Ang layunin natin ay masigurong napapakinabangan ng taumbayan ang mga forfeited goods. Imbes na masayang o matengga ang mga ito, patuloy tayong makikipagtulungan sa iba’t ibang ahensya at partner institutions para maipamahagi nang maayos at naaayon sa batas,” ani Commissioner Nepomuceno.
The initiative supports the BOC’s Integrity, Accountability, and Modernization (IAM) Movement, advancing transparent and efficient operations in line with the administration’s whole-of-government approach to social welfare and community development.
