The Bureau of Customs’ (BoC) Enforcement and Security Service commemorated its 37th anniversary, highlighting its role in protecting the country’s borders from transnational crimes, officials said.

In a statement, the BoC said that the ESS has played a key role in combating illicit trade and smuggling, and contributed to the Philippines’ removal from the Financial Action Task Force’s Grey List.

Led by Deputy Commissioner for Enforcement Atty. Teddy S. Raval, the ESS seized approximately P131.79 million in undeclared currency.

In 2024, the ESS seized contraband valued at P85.167 billion. From January to 29 March, the unit conducted 243 seizure operations, confiscating P25.581 billion worth of smuggled goods, a 39.59 percent increase from the same period last year.

The ESS also reported marking 19.95 billion liters of imported fuel, resulting in P242.36 billion in tariffs and taxes. Additionally, 164 cases involving P2,046,219,649 worth of illegal narcotics were referred for prosecution.

“As the enforcement division of the Bureau of Customs, our Enforcement and Security Service has been our first line of defense for almost 40 years,” the BoC said.