CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY— The Bureau of Customs (BOC) Collection District X collected ₱21.915 billion in the first half of 2026, surpassing its ₱20.718-billion target as it intensified efforts to curb smuggling and improve public awareness of customs regulations.
Newly installed BOC-10 District Collector said keeping the public informed about customs policies and trade regulations is key to strengthening compliance and supporting the bureau's anti-smuggling campaign.
Saulong made the statement during a July 28 meeting with officials of the , where he highlighted the role of the media in delivering accurate and timely information on customs operations.
The district exceeded its monthly collection targets from January to April before falling short in May and June. Despite the slowdown, first-half collections remained above target.
BOC-10 also generated ₱39.46 billion in revenue in 2025, with petroleum products contributing the largest share. Diesel accounted for ₱13.306 billion, followed by gasoline at ₱4.859 billion.
Other major revenue sources included coal, processed food, liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), milled rice, milk, palm oil, bunker fuel and rolled plated products.
Saulong said stronger public awareness would complement the bureau's nationwide campaign against illegal trade, including the smuggling of cigarettes and other contraband through ports.
Officials of the Cagayan de Oro Press Club expressed support for closer cooperation with the Bureau of Customs to help ensure the public receives accurate and timely information on customs policies, trade regulations and anti-smuggling efforts.
