In a recent comprehensive command conference, the Bureau of Customs – Intelligence Group (BoC-IG) reviewed its annual performance and reflected on the monumental accomplishments of the year.

Director Verne Y. Enciso of the Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service (CIIS) officially opened the program on 11 December, by reflecting on the significant progress of the BoC in intelligence initiatives from 2022 to the present, emphasizing the growth in the value of seizures, which has nearly doubled each year. He attributed much of this success to the leadership of Commissioner Bienvenido Y. Rubio and Deputy Commissioner Juvymax R. Uy.

“Two years later, here we are, with results that speak for themselves. Under the visionary leadership of Commissioner Rubio and Deputy Commissioner Uy, the Intelligence Group has made remarkable strides in performance,” said Director Enciso. “From 729 seizures worth P24 billion in 2022, we have now, in 2024, achieved an astounding 1,537 seizures with a total value of P81 billion—and counting.”

Of this amount, more than half came from CIIS-MICP, with P55 billion worth of seized contraband, according to its chief, Intelligence Officer 4 Alvin Enciso.

Among these were illegal drugs, vape products, frozen mackerel, luxury vehicles, general merchandise, used clothing, counterfeit items, and agricultural products, among others.

The command conference, attended by the heads of all IG Field Offices nationwide, featured in-depth presentations detailing the Intelligence Group’s significant cases and achievements this year. Division chiefs also provided updates on the ongoing operations and activities of their respective offices: the Intelligence Division, Investigation Division, Internal and Inquiry Division, X-ray Inspection Project, Risk Management Office, and Accounts Management Office.

One of the main highlights of the discussion was the presentation on trends and analysis of seized commodities, which covered a review of overall seizures in 2024, the most frequently apprehended commodities, and commonly employed smuggling methods.

In an open dialogue session, the IG also outlined strategic plans for 2025 to advance its mission of fortifying the Bureau’s intelligence operations and reinforcing its critical role in border security.

In a statement, Commissioner Rubio called on IG officials to sustain their momentum in delivering greater achievements for the Bureau. He noted, “Good governance and effective measures against illicit trade have strengthened the organization’s collaborative efforts, enhanced border security, and facilitated smoother trade processes. With this in mind, I encourage you to build upon your progress and conclude the year with renewed dedication as we gear up for more years of excellence.”

Deputy Commissioner Uy concluded the meeting by commending the IG officers and personnel for their invaluable contributions to achieving the BOC’s mission to secure the nation’s frontiers from illicit trade and contraband, as well as the role of intelligence operations in safeguarding economic development and the country’s aspirations for a safe and progressive trade landscape.