Marcos replaces Customs chief Rubio, 5 others

Former Customs Commissioner Bienvenido Rubio, along with five other officials, were replaced at the Bureau of Customs (BoC), Palace Press Officer Undersecretary Claire Castro disclosed on Tuesday.

On Monday, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. appointed former Office of Civil Defense Administrator Ariel F. Nepomuceno as Rubio's replacement at the BoC.

In a press briefing, Castro did not reveal the reason behind the acceptance of their courtesy resignations but reiterated that the move was in line with efforts to improve public service.

“As we say, the President really wants every head of agency, every leader under the President's jurisdiction, to provide better service,” she said.

“Not only one was replaced—six were replaced, including the Commissioner. There are collectors, there are deputy commissioners and directors—all six of them in the Bureau of Customs,” she added.

Castro emphasized that President Marcos seeks to remain committed to the country, crack down on smuggling, and ensure transparency in revenue collection.

No replacement yet for OCD

While Nepomuceno assumes the top BoC post, Castro said there is no replacement yet for the Office of Civil Defense (OCD).

Nepomuceno's new directives include protecting ports, strengthening border security, and combating smuggling.

Castro underscored that the President is still evaluating agency performance, and the removal of BoC officials should not be interpreted as an admission of wrongdoing within the bureau.

“Everybody is on notice; everybody is on probation. We have to work better for the country and for our fellowmen, the Filipino people,” she said.