Photo credit: Bureau of Customs PH

Once again, the Bureau of Customs (BOC) finds itself under scrutiny.

Last week, two former BOC commissioners, under oath, revealed the extent of the notorious “tara” system—where officials are bribed to expedite shipments—during their tenures.

Former Police General Isidro Lapeña and ex-mutineer Nick Faeldon, both of whom led the BOC under the Duterte administration, admitted that they attempted, but ultimately failed, to dismantle the deeply entrenched system.

The “tara” system allegedly involves paying bribes to various BOC offices in exchange for expediting shipments, lowering taxes on smuggled goods, and circumventing inspections.

Mark Taguba, a BOC fixer currently detained for his alleged role in a multi-billion-peso drug smuggling operation, corroborated Lapeña and Faeldon’s claims during his testimony. Taguba had previously confessed to facilitating the release of around 100 containers, each with a “tara” payment of P170,000.

However, current BOC officials present at the hearing refused to comment on the issue, raising further concerns about the agency’s commitment to transparency.

This prompted Manila Rep. Benny Abante, co-chair of the House Committee on Customs, to call for the attendance of incumbent BOC Commissioner Bienvenido Rubio at the next hearing to address the matter.

Yet, despite the shocking testimonies from Lapeña, Faeldon, and Taguba, many were not surprised. The “tara” system has long been considered an open secret within the BOC, cementing the agency’s reputation as one of the most corrupt in the government.

Now, the focus shifts to Rubio, who has remained conspicuously silent in the wake of these revelations.

As Rubio nears his second anniversary as BOC Commissioner next month, the agency has yet to implement any significant measures to combat corruption—“tara” system included.

While it is Rubio’s primary responsibility to meet revenue targets, he must also take proactive steps to root out corruption and introduce meaningful reforms.

Over the years, numerous BOC employees have been suspected of accepting bribes, with even low-ranking officers reportedly living lavish lifestyles funded by their “tara” earnings.

If Rubio, in his upcoming appearance before Congress, denies that the “tara” system still exists under his watch, he would either be in denial or failing to address the issue head-on. The system has been so deeply entrenched in the BOC for decades that it has become part of the agency’s culture, allegedly fueled by a network of “creative and enterprising” employees.

The “tara” system has persisted for so long that even former top BOC officials—long accustomed to its operations—continue to treat the agency as their personal “playground.” Rubio cannot claim ignorance of this ongoing problem; either he is too distracted or too naïve to recognize the shady dealings occurring right under his nose.

Meanwhile, rumors abound that Rubio has been cultivating ties with a powerful congressman who allegedly uses his influence to meddle in BOC operations. Sources suggest this congressman is involved in the importation of premium goods through operations resembling duty-free schemes.

Will Rubio deny these rumors? Likely. But his close association with this congressman has sparked speculation about a potential “joint venture” between the two.

To truly clean up the BOC, Rubio must first distance himself from this alleged “congressman-friend,” who is reportedly treating the agency as his personal cash cow, according to knowledgeable sources.

During the Duterte administration, another influential congressman used his connections to run “business” at the BOC. This congressman allegedly cornered lucrative transactions within the agency, becoming a “padrino” to known smugglers.

Now, history appears to be repeating itself. The modus operandi may be the same, but the players have changed. Another congressman is reportedly profiting from the same tried-and-true corrupt schemes.

We understand the allure the BOC holds for influence peddlers, racketeers, and hustlers. But for lawmakers to participate in such a corrupt system raises serious questions about the risks they are taking as they dip their fingers into the proverbial cookie jar.

Roseten Tugaff

Roseten “Tenten” Tugaff is an experienced journalist with a rich background in reporting. He began his career in the mid-’90s, working with the now-defunct Manila Chronicle and The Manila Times shortly after graduating from college. Throughout his career, he has also held various roles in government. Currently, he is a freelance media relations practitioner and hosts his own online political podcast.