BoC breaks April collection record with P86.4 billion
THE Bureau of Customs (BoC) said it collected P86.4 billion last month, a record for April which exceeded its monthly target.
In a statement on Monday, Customs said that collections in April surpassed by 9.9% the P78.6-billion target set for April. It was also 15.7% higher from a year earlier.
“The milestone underscores the BoC sustained revenue strength despite prevailing external challenges affecting global and domestic trade, including the economic impact of ongoing conflicts in the Middle East,” it said.
It added that the three-month suspension or reduction of excise taxes on liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and kerosene, which started in April, directly affected revenue streams.
Soaring fuel prices and dwindling reserves prompted the government to declare a one-year state of national energy emergency and suspend levies on LPG and kerosene.
Meanwhile, calls to expand the suspension to diesel and gasoline continue.
Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno attributed the “record-breaking performance” to the collective efforts of the agency.
“This is our highest year-to-date surplus on record for the last 10 years, and it reflects the discipline, integrity, and consistency of our personnel across all ports,” he said.
“Even in the face of global uncertainties and policy shifts that affect our revenue base, we continue to deliver results that directly support government programs and national development,” he added.
In particular, Customs said that the sustained performance was driven by stronger valuation practices, improved monitoring systems, and continued digitalization of customs processes.
In the first four months, total collections hit P328.81 billion, also exceeding the P314.66-billion target it was set for the period.
“This reflect growth of P19.73 billion or 6.4% compared to the same period in 2025, underscoring the Bureau’s sustained revenue performance and strong start toward its trillion-peso goal for 2026,” it added.
Under the Budget of Expenditures and Sources of Financing 2026, the BoC is projected to collect P1.01 trillion this year.- — Justine Irish D. Tabile
