BoC upgrades storage security, real-time tracking

The Bureau of Customs (BoC) is strengthening safeguards over seized, forfeited and abandoned goods by deploying additional security personnel, installing real-time tracking systems and expanding interagency coordination.

BoC commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno signed a memorandum directing agency offices to reinforce physical security and strictly enforce accountability standards for all goods in customs custody.

Under the directive, the agency is developing a real-time monitoring dashboard to maintain centralized visibility over stored goods and track their movement.

The agency is also enhancing physical security by installing additional closed-circuit television cameras and assigning extra personnel to designated storage facilities.

To enforce transparency during handling and inspection operations, the agency plans to procure body-worn cameras for operational staff.

Additionally, customs officials are partnering with the Philippine Coast Guard to reinforce perimeter security around storage facilities.

The directive follows recent inspection visits to the Ports of Cebu and Surigao, where authorities carried out one of the largest seizures of illicit cigarettes in agency history, to evaluate facility security protocols.

The bureau stated it is prioritizing the accelerated destruction or sale of legally cleared items to prevent prolonged storage, optimize warehouse space and clear backlog once legal proceedings conclude.