The Bureau of Customs (BOC) in the Philippines has intensified its efforts to bolster border security. Recently, two passengers were apprehended at NAIA Terminal 3 for carrying undeclared foreign currency totaling over PhP24 million. This action underscores the BOC's commitment to enforcing strict customs regulations and combating financial crimes. Legal proceedings have been initiated against the suspects under various laws, including the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act and the Anti-Money Laundering Act. The initiative aligns with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s national strategy to combat money laundering and terrorism financing.
Cracking Down on Currency Smuggling
On January 22 and 23, 2025, two individuals were intercepted at NAIA Terminal 3 for attempting to smuggle undeclared currency. The first incident involved a Filipino traveler who was found with USD272,000, equivalent to approximately PhP15.9 million. The following day, a Japanese national was caught with USD43,710, JPY15,040,000, and PhP62,000, totaling around PhP8.3 million. Both cases highlight the ongoing challenges faced by customs authorities in detecting and preventing illegal cross-border currency movements.
Customs officials conducted thorough inspections of the passengers' belongings, leading to the discovery of the undeclared currencies. These operations were carried out by the Collection District III (NAIA), in collaboration with the Enforcement and Security Service (ESS) and the Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service (CIIS). The meticulous examination process ensures that all items are scrutinized thoroughly, minimizing the risk of illicit activities going undetected. Such rigorous checks underscore the dedication of these agencies to maintaining stringent border controls and upholding legal standards.
Legal and Strategic Responses
In response to these incidents, legal actions have been initiated against both passengers. They face potential violations of several key legislations, including Sections 117, 1400, 1401, and 1403 of Republic Act No. 10863, the Manual of Regulations on Foreign Exchange Transactions, Republic Act No. 7653, and Section 4 of Republic Act No. 9160. These laws aim to regulate foreign exchange transactions and prevent money laundering, ensuring the integrity of the country's financial system.
The enforcement of these regulations is part of a broader national strategy to combat financial crimes. Under President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s leadership, the National Anti-Money Laundering, Counter-Terrorism Financing, and Counter-Proliferation Financing Strategy (NACS) 2023–2027 has been adopted. This strategic framework seeks to enhance public safety and economic stability by addressing the root causes of financial crimes. Commissioner Bienvenido Y. Rubio emphasized the BOC's unwavering commitment to this campaign, stating that they will continue to enforce regulations rigorously and ensure that violators are held accountable. Led by District Collector Yasmin O. Mapa, the BOC-NAIA remains dedicated to safeguarding the nation's borders and upholding customs regulations.