THE Bureau of Customs (BOC) on Tuesday, September 9, has required all officials, employees and personnel to disclose their familial and business ties with individuals engaging in the customs brokerage industry.
This is in line with the bureau’s Memorandum 39-2025, which prohibits BOC officials, employees and personnel from directly engaging or having interest with entities engaged in customs brokerage.
The memorandum ordered all BOC personnel to file a verified affidavit disclosing ties in the customs brokerage industry, within 10 days after the posting of the directive, upon assumption of office, transfer of ownership or equity in customs brokerage firms, marriage with a party engaged in customs brokerage, or other similar circumstances.
The Republic Act No. 6713, or the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees, prohibits public servants from engaging in private businesses or activities that may unduly influence or interfere with the performance of their official duties.
The directive comes amid the unfolding of the anomalous flood-control projects.
High-profile contractor Sarah Discaya, during a Senate hearing, admitted owning 28 luxury cars. BOC earlier said it has in its custody 12 of the 28 cars.
Last week, BOC said it is also looking at the properties of the other flood-control project contractors, including their private yachts and helicopters. (ABS-CBN News)
