The Bureau of Customs (BoC) stressed Tuesday that it remains committed to its partnership with the Philippine National Police (PNP) despite a recent confrontation involving customs and police personnel in Bulacan, calling the altercation an isolated incident.

In an official statement, Customs Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno noted that mutual respect, trust and close coordination are vital to government efforts against smuggling and illegal trade.

He pointed out that joint operations between the BoC and the PNP have repeatedly yielded major seizures of contraband valued in the billions of pesos.

The statement follows an incident in Sta. Maria, Bulacan, where BoC-Port of Subic personnel carrying out a lawful condemnation activity engaged in a standoff with members of the PNP Highway Patrol Group.

While describing the clash as isolated, Nepomuceno expressed firm support for customs agents performing their duties and stated that personnel must receive professional treatment and respect under established inter-agency protocols.

Nepomuceno acknowledged the swift response of the PNP leadership in addressing the dispute, adding that the bureau will not let the situation compromise long-standing inter-agency cooperation.

He ordered officials to use the event to refine operational protocols and prevent similar incidents.

“The BoC will continue working closely with the PNP, guided by mutual respect, professionalism, and a shared commitment to combat smuggling and illicit trade,” Nepomuceno said.

The PNP-HPG relieved officers assigned to the Regional Highway Patrol Unit-NCR from their posts following their involvement in the confrontation, which occurred during the disposal of confiscated smuggled cigarettes.